Police in Anambra State have arrested two security operatives for the accidental killing of a 17-year-old boy at Onitsha Main Market. The incident occurred when the vigilantes fired shots while attempting to arrest a suspect.
According to a statement released by Anambra State Police Command's Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the security operatives, suspected to be members of the local vigilante group, shot indiscriminately into the air during the arrest attempt, resulting in a stray bullet hitting and killing the innocent teenager.
Details of the Incident
"Police operatives attached to the Onitsha Main Market Police Division, leveraging on the support of some traders, have arrested two suspects allegedly involved in the murder of a 17-year-old boy and recovered one automatic pump action gun," Ikenga stated.
"Eyewitness account revealed that the suspects who were allegedly security operatives while attempting to arrest a suspect started shooting indiscriminately and regrettably, a bullet hit the innocent boy," he added.
Separate Kidnapping Arrest
In a separate development, the police spokesman also disclosed the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect, Chimaobi Mbonu, who is allegedly a member of a deadly criminal gang specializing in kidnapping.
"Police operatives attached to the Awgbu Divisional Headquarters, leveraging on community support on 12th June, 2025, arrested one Chimaobi Mbonu, aged 19 years," Ikenga reported.
The suspect is allegedly involved in the kidnap and murder of late Mr. George Onwurah in May 2024 at Ndiukwuenu Village, Orumba North Local Government Area. Preliminary information revealed that Mbonu and other gang members still at large kidnapped and tortured their victims to death after collecting ransom.
The criminal gang is also reportedly responsible for vandalizing the Community Health Care Centre, stealing electrical materials and other valuables.
Police Response
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has condemned the unprofessional behavior of the security operatives involved in the teenager's death. He has ordered the immediate transfer of all suspects to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for comprehensive investigation.
Additionally, the Commissioner has directed operatives to apprehend other members of Mbonu's gang who are currently at large.
This incident highlights growing concerns about vigilante operations and security challenges in Anambra State, as authorities work to maintain law and order while ensuring proper conduct from all security personnel.
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