Two members of the Anambra State-backed security outfit, Agunechemba, have been arrested for allegedly killing a 17-year-old boy during an operation near the Biafra Market in Onitsha.
The incident occurred on Thursday along Ifejike Street by Sokoto Road in Onitsha South Local Government Area, sparking outrage among residents and traders who confronted the operatives over the fatal shooting.
According to eyewitness accounts, the victim was sitting on a culvert close to the Nwangene Drainage when he was struck by a stray bullet.
The operatives were reportedly firing sporadically while chasing a fleeing suspect.
One eyewitness said, “The boy was just sitting there, probably heading to the toilet, when he was hit.
The operatives tried to escape in their vehicle, but the crowd blocked them. Eventually, they took the boy’s body with them under pressure.”
A video circulating online shows two uniformed operatives lifting the lifeless body into a white security van with registration number ANSG 0060.
The Anambra State Government had established the Agụnechemba and Udo-ga-Chi security units in March to assist law enforcement in tackling crime.
However, growing concerns have emerged over the conduct of some personnel.
Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects had been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka. He said, “Officers from the Onitsha Main Market Division, supported by traders, apprehended two suspects involved in the incident and recovered a pump-action rifle.”
Ikenga added that eyewitnesses confirmed the operatives were attempting to arrest a suspect when they began shooting indiscriminately, resulting in the teen’s death.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikoiye Orutugu, condemned the actions of the operatives and ordered a thorough investigation.
Read Also: https://fusionchronicles.ng/zenith-bank-access-holdings-surpass-cbns-n500bn-recapitalisation-target/
He also directed their immediate transfer for detailed interrogation and possible disciplinary action.
