By Abuchi Ifesinachi, Awka
Information reaching 247ureports.com indicates that tension has taken over the capital city of Awka, Anambra following the killing of a petty trader and loader, Mr Ejiofor Attah at the popular Eke-Awka market on Tuesday morning.
An eyewitness told newsmen that the incident which occurred at about 9:30am also led to the mobbing of two vigilante men in the market, who allegedly killed Attah.
The source said that troubled started when the vigilante men attempted to collect loading and off-loading levies from traders in the market when a fracas ensued.
“One of the vigilante men shot the loader who was passing-by during the milieu. I wonder why they should use guns to collect levies in the market,” the source said.
Another eyewitness however, said that the incident occurred during an investigation by the vigilante men on the directive of the market leadership of a phone allegedly stolen by a suspect.
According to the source, they started dragging gun and mistakenly shot the victim who died instantly.
Reacting however, the chairman of the market, Mr Emeka Agunmadu, said that the incident had nothing to do with collection of any illegal fee or levies as stated by eyewitnesses.
“Someone came to my office around 9am complaining that somebody snatched his phone and attempted to run away.
“I sent two vigilante men to find out what happened only to be called about 15 minutes later that one of the vigilante men had shot someone dead.
“On investigating, I gathered that a vigilante man had dragged his gun with the suspect who allegedly stole the phone and in the process the gun shot and hit another person.
“We have market task force who do not collect state government levies using guns,” he said
He advised the traders and all those affected to remain calm as the Police had begun investigation into the matter, promising that the matter would be resolved amicably.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr Uche Ezeh, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incident.
Ezeh said that one person was shot dead while a mob descended on two vigilante persons beating them to stupor.
“Both the deceased and the two injured vigilante men were rushed to Safton Hospital Awka.
“The injured men are receiving treatment in the hospital while the corpse of the deceased has been deposited in the hospital mortuary.
“The Head of the market vigilante services and his men are now at the Central Police Division, helping the police in their investigation.
“The police quickly swung into action to ensure there is law and order in the market and environs,” he added.
