A task force operation at Onitsha Main Market in Anambra state turned violent on Tuesday, leaving one person dead and six others injured.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to reports, operatives of the Ocha Brigade, the state’s environmental enforcement unit, engaged in a confrontation with traders before firing shots. The incident sparked panic and unrest across the market.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson in Anambra, confirmed the shooting in a statement. He said tactical teams were deployed to the scene to restore calm.
He noted that the operatives swiftly addressed and calmed the traders, restoring order and dispersing them back to their shops and lawful businesses.
Ikenga identified the victims of the gunfire as Ebuka Orakwe, Orum Oluebube, Anthony Kosisochukwu, Ifeoma Ezema, and Chinwe Igwe (22), alongside two others yet to be named.
The spokesman noted that Igwe was later confirmed dead, while her body has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy. He added that other victims are currently receiving treatment and are responding positively.
According to Ikenga, the task force management has been summoned to identify the suspects for prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, Anambra commissioner for information, Law Mefor, disclosed that Governor Chukwuma Soludo has directed the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
He noted that an investigation into the incident has commenced, and the government will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences.
