Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the arrest and prosecution of operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade following a shooting in Onitsha on Tuesday that left a pregnant woman and at least one trader dead.
The incident occurred near the busy Emeka Offor Plaza in Onitsha Main Market when OCHA operatives allegedly opened fire during an enforcement operation. The gunshots caused chaos in the commercial hub as traders and passersby ran for safety.
Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, confirmed the deaths, including that of Miss Chinwe Igwe, who was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Several other victims are receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.
Soludo directed that the suspects be handed over to the police for prosecution and that the government cover the medical expenses of the injured.
“The state government appreciates the swift intervention of the police who restored calm. An investigation has commenced, and measures will be taken to prevent similar tragedies,” Mefor said.
The OCHA Brigade, created to enforce sanitation rules, has frequently faced allegations of harassment, extortion, and brutality. The latest killings have reignited criticism of its operations, with residents demanding accountability.
Leave a Reply