Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has swiftly directed the arrest and prosecution of operatives from the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra Brigade (OCHA Brigade) implicated in a fatal shooting incident near Emeka Offor Plaza in Onitsha Main Market, which claimed the life of at least one pregnant woman and injured several others.
The tragic clash unfolded on Tuesday morning around 10 a.m., when OCHA Brigade operatives, tasked with maintaining environmental sanitation and order in markets, attempted to confiscate wares from non-compliant traders.
Eyewitnesses reported that resistance from the traders escalated into an altercation, prompting the operatives to open fire—initially into the air before shots reportedly struck civilians.
Among the victims was a pregnant woman who succumbed to her injuries, with at least six to seven others, including traders, hospitalized for gunshot wounds at the Federal Medical Centre in Onitsha.
Some accounts suggest up to four fatalities, though police confirmed one death and multiple injuries.
In a statement issued late Tuesday, Governor Soludo condemned the incident as unacceptable, emphasizing that no operative is above the law.
"The operatives responsible must be held accountable and handed over to the police without delay," he stated, adding that the state government would cover the medical bills of all victims.
Governor Soludo also reaffirmed that OCHA Brigade activities must strictly adhere to legal guidelines, distancing the authorized operation from what he described as rogue elements.
The brigade's leadership has disavowed the involved personnel, claiming they acted without official sanction.
Anambra State Police Command, led by Commissioner CP Ikioye Orutugu, responded promptly to distress calls, deploying tactical teams to restore calm in the market.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that seven traders sustained gunshot injuries and that investigations are underway.
Several suspects have already been apprehended, with assurances of thorough probes to prevent further unrest.
"Calm has been restored, and we are working with other agencies to ensure justice," Ikenga said.
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