Two members of the Anambra State-backed security outfit, Agunechemba, have been arrested following the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old boy during an operation in the Biafra Market area of Onitsha.
The incident occurred on Thursday at Ifejike Street, near Sokoto Road in Onitsha South Local Government Area, sparking outrage among traders and residents. Witnesses say the boy was sitting on a culvert near the Nwangene Drainage when he was struck by a stray bullet fired during a pursuit by the operatives.
According to eyewitnesses, the Agunechemba operatives were chasing a suspect and fired shots indiscriminately, one of which hit the teenager.
Attempts by the security team to flee the scene were thwarted by angry residents and traders, who insisted they take responsibility for the boy’s body.
One witness said, “He was just sitting there, probably on his way to the toilet, when he was shot.
The security men tried to leave, but the crowd blocked them. Eventually, they were pressured into taking the body with them.”
A video circulating online shows two operatives placing the lifeless body into a white van with the registration number ANSG 0060.
The Agunechemba and Udo-ga-Chi security units were established by the Anambra State Government in March to work alongside the police and other agencies in combating crime.
However, recent incidents have raised questions about the conduct of some of its personnel.
Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka.
“Police operatives attached to the Onitsha Main Market Division, with the support of traders, arrested two individuals involved in the shooting.
A pump-action rifle was also recovered,” Ikenga said.
He noted that eyewitness accounts confirmed the operatives were attempting to apprehend a suspect when they opened fire, leading to the teen’s death.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikoiye Orutugu, has condemned the actions of the operatives and ordered a thorough investigation.
He emphasized that those found responsible will face appropriate disciplinary measures.