By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed calm the death of one person and the shooting of seven other traders at Onitsha Main Market following a violent confrontation between operatives of the Ocha Brigade, the state environmental law enforcement outfit, and traders.

The altercation happened in the early hours of Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

Reacting to the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that the Command received a distress call reporting that Ocha Brigade personnel had engaged In a confrontation with traders, leading to gunfire and subsequent unrest in the market.

He said that one Miss Chinwe Igwe was however confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital.

According to him, her body has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy and preservation, while other victims are receiving medical attention and responding positively to treatment.

Ikenga said: “The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu in response swiftly deployed tactical teams, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, the Area Commander Onitsha, the Divisional Police Officer Main Market, and the Commander of the Anti-Cultism Squad, alongside other security agencies.

“The operatives promptly intervened, calming the agitated traders, restoring order, and ensuring they returned to their shops and lawful businesses.”

He identified the victims with gunshot injuries to include, Mr. Ebuka Orakwe (M), Orum Oluebube (M), Anthony Kosisochukwu (M), Ifeoma Ezema (F), Chinwe Igwe (F, 22 years), and two others yet to be identified, adding that they were immediately evacuated to a hospital for treatment.

Continuing, the Police Spokesman said that the state Police Command has invited the management of the Ocha Brigade to assist in identifying the suspects involved in the incident for prosecution.

He stressed that normalcy has been restored in Onitsha Main Market, with ongoing patrols and monitoring to ensure sustained peace.

Meanwhile, that CP has reiterated the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

He urged residents to report any suspicious activities to aid swift response.

The police further assured the public of a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.