Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra Brigade (OCHA Brigade) involved in Tuesday’s tragic shooting near Emeka Offor Plaza, Onitsha Main Market.
The directive, announced in a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Sir Law Mefor, came after reports that OCHA operatives allegedly opened fire while enforcing regulations, sparking chaos in the bustling commercial hub.
Governor Soludo also mandated that all medical expenses for the injured be fully covered by the state government.
The OCHA Brigade, established to enforce environmental and sanitation laws, has long faced criticism over allegations of harassment, extortion, and excessive force against residents and traders. Tuesday’s incident, however, marked a deadly escalation.
According to the statement, one victim, identified as Miss Chinwe Igwe, was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital. Her remains have been deposited at the morgue for autopsy, while others who sustained gunshot injuries are said to be responding well to treatment.
“We commend the swift intervention of the Police, who restored calm and order to the area. The State Government has launched a full-scale investigation and will take all necessary steps to prevent a recurrence,” Mefor said.
Governor Soludo emphasized that the operatives responsible must be held accountable, directing that they be handed over to the police without delay.
Normalcy has since returned to the Onitsha Main Market area, with police patrols and surveillance teams maintaining peace and order.
The tragic incident highlights the deep tensions between enforcement task forces and the public in commercial centres like Onitsha, where efforts to maintain order are often overshadowed by reports of brutality and abuse of power.
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