Onitsha, the bustling commercial heartbeat of Anambra, was thrown into chaos on Tuesday as operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade reportedly opened fire during enforcement operations near the Emeka Offor Plaza in Onitsha Main Market, leaving one woman dead and several others injured.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of pandemonium as traders and shoppers scampered for safety in what has been tagged one of the most violent episodes involving the controversial OCHA Brigade, notorious for harassment, extortion, and excessive use of force. Among the victims was a young pregnant woman, according to witnesses, further stoking public outrage.
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo wasted no time in responding to the tragedy. In a strongly worded directive, he ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of the OCHA operatives involved, insisting that they be handed over to the police without delay.
Confirming the development, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, said the government was fully aware of the incident and has swung into action to restore calm. “We appreciate the swift intervention of the police, who have restored order to the market. Investigations are already underway, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served,” he stated.
Mefor further revealed that one of the victims, Miss Chinwe Igwe, tragically lost her life and was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital. Her remains have been deposited at the morgue for autopsy and preservation. The other victims, according to him, are receiving medical care at government expense and are responding positively to treatment.
Governor Soludo assured residents that those culpable would face the full wrath of the law. “This government will not condone any act of brutality or lawlessness, especially against the very citizens we are elected to protect,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, normalcy has reportedly returned to the area, with police intensifying patrols and surveillance to forestall a recurrence. Traders and residents, however, continue to demand a total overhaul—or outright disbandment—of the OCHA Brigade, which many believe has long outlived its usefulness.
PIONEER NEWS 