Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has ordered the arrest of security operatives of the Operation Clean And Healthy Anambra Brigade after a shooting incident caused panic at the busy Onitsha Main Market.
The operatives were said to have opened fire near Emeka Offor Plaza on Tuesday while carrying out enforcement duties, leaving several people injured and a young woman dead.
In a statement, Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, confirmed the Governor’s directive. “Mr Governor has directed that the suspects be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution and for the medical needs of those who sustained injuries to be taken care of,” he said.
Mefor added that the state government regrets the incident. “Regrettably, one of the victims, Miss Chinwe Igwe, was confirmed dead on arrival. Her body has been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy and preservation. The other victims are currently receiving treatment and are responding positively.”
He also praised the swift response of the police in calming the situation. “We appreciate the swift intervention of the Police, who have restored calm and order to the area. An investigation into the incident has commenced, and the government will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” he said.
The OCHA Brigade, set up to enforce environmental and sanitation laws, has faced repeated accusations of harassment, extortion, and excessive force in the past. Tuesday’s shooting renewed public anger about their methods.
The government said normal activities have resumed in the market, with police patrols continuing to ensure peace.
