Soludo Orders Arrest of Brigade Officers After Onitsha Shooting

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has ordered the arrest of members of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra Brigade after a shooting near Emeka Offor Plaza in Onitsha Main Market. The task force, which enforces sanitation laws, allegedly opened fire during an operation, causing panic and casualties.

Commissioner for Information Law Mefor said one victim, Miss Chinwe Igwe, was confirmed dead while others injured are receiving treatment. He added that the governor directed that the suspects be handed over to police for prosecution and that the medical expenses of victims be covered by the state.

According to the government, the conduct of the officers was unacceptable, and an investigation has begun. Police have since restored calm to the market, with patrols ongoing to prevent further incidents.

Witnesses said the shooting started after an altercation between traders and task force operatives. Stray bullets reportedly hit several people, including a pregnant woman, sparking chaos before security agents intervened.