Soludo Orders Arrest, Prosecution of OCHA Brigade Officers Over Onitsha Market Shooting

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of members of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade involved in a shooting incident near Emeka Offor Plaza, Onitsha Main Market.

The governor directed that the suspects be handed over to the police for prosecution, while assuring that full medical treatment would be provided for those injured.

This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday by the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.

The OCHA Brigade, a task force responsible for enforcing environmental and sanitation laws, has long faced allegations of harassment, extortion, and excessive force. Tensions boiled over on Tuesday when its operatives reportedly opened fire during enforcement operations, sparking chaos in the busy commercial hub. Eyewitnesses claimed that casualties included a pregnant woman.

Confirming the development, Mefor said the government was closely monitoring the situation at Onitsha Main Market.

The statement read in part:

“We appreciate the swift intervention of the Police, who have restored calm and order to the area. An investigation into the incident has commenced, and the government will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Regrettably, one of the victims, Miss Chinwe Igwe, was confirmed dead on arrival. Her body has been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy and preservation. The other victims are currently receiving treatment and are responding positively.

Meanwhile, Mr Governor has directed that the suspects be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution and for the medical needs of those who sustained injuries to be taken care of.”

Mefor added that normalcy has since been restored by the police, who have intensified patrols and monitoring in the area to ensure peace is maintained.