Governor Chukwuma Soludo orders arrest of OCHA Brigade operatives after Onitsha shooting that killed four, including a pregnant woman, near Emeka Offor Plaza

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra Brigade (OCHA Brigade) who were allegedly responsible for the tragic shooting that occurred on Tuesday near Emeka Offor Plaza in Onitsha Main Market.

The incident, which caused panic in the bustling commercial hub, claimed the lives of at least four people, including a pregnant woman, and left several others injured.

In a swift response, Governor Soludo directed that the officers involved be apprehended without delay and handed over to the police for full-scale investigation and prosecution.

He further instructed that the injured victims be given urgent medical attention, with the government taking responsibility for their treatment.

The directive was contained in a statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Mr. Law Mefor.

According to him, law enforcement agents acted promptly to restore calm and order to the affected area, and an official inquiry has already commenced to ascertain what transpired.

The statement reads in part: “We appreciate the swift intervention of the police in bringing the situation under control.

“An investigation has been launched, and the state government is committed to ensuring that those found culpable are prosecuted. Measures will also be put in place to prevent a recurrence of such a disturbing incident.”

Mefor went on to confirm the identity of one of the victims, Miss Chinwe Igwe, who was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

Her body has since been deposited in the mortuary for autopsy and preservation. He added that other victims are receiving medical treatment and are responding positively.

To ensure the safety of traders and residents, the Commissioner disclosed that the police have intensified patrols and monitoring around the Onitsha Main Market and adjoining areas.

He reassured the public that peace has been fully restored, though security agencies remain on high alert to forestall further breaches.

Governor Soludo emphasized that his administration will not tolerate any act of lawlessness or abuse of power by government agents, stressing that the primary duty of state operatives is to safeguard lives and property, not to endanger them.