The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Monday, embarked on a proactive security patrol within the state, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining law and order.

One of the aspects of the patrol was the visit to the scene of the fire incident at a warehouse and two buildings on Ifejirika Street in Nwangene, Onitsha, gutted by fire on Friday.

Orutugu said the visit was aimed at ensuring that the police personnel deployed to the area were complying with their duties to deter crime and maintain public safety around the market.

Speaking during the visit, the CP said, “This is an on-the-spot assessment of the fire scene. As a force, we regret the unfortunate incident and propose a meeting of the marketers/warehouse owners and relevant stakeholders for necessary measures to be taken to nip in the bud any such or related incident.

“I also visited Fegge Divisional Police Headquarters where I interviewed some suspects and directed the immediate release of the two suspects allegedly held over a minor offence.”

In another development, the Onitsha Bus Drivers Association, in solidarity with the Commissioner of Police, pledged support to the command to improve security and safety in Onitsha, especially with the total return of economic activities in the town.

The CP also visited the head of the Northern community in Anambra to promote a sense of belonging and inclusivity, which are essential for maintaining peace and stability in the State. He also emphasized the importance of fostering unity among all residents, regardless of their ethnic background.

Other places visited and patrolled include the Main Market Divisional Headquarters, Building Materials, Onitsha Headbridge and some other strategic areas in the State.

The CP assured that the Command will continue to explore community policing principles to build trust between the Police and the public.

Some of the affected traders, who spoke to journalists, recounted their losses while appealing to the state government and other relevant agencies for collective action.

Mrs Chinonso Nwokearu said she lost goods worth N220 million, Ezeji Kelechi said he lost goods and cash worth N170 million, Ndubuisi Kalu said he lost goods worth N280 million, Ogechi Ibem said he lost goods worth N350 million, Olua Ukairo said he lost goods worth N80 million.

Others, such as Kelechi Ananaba, said he lost goods worth N250 million, Lewechi Emeh said he lost goods worth N270 million, Ifeanyi Nwose Nwofoke lost goods and cash worth N110 million, Uduma Ukairo lost goods and cash worth N95 million.

Nwachukwu Mike lost goods and cash worth N170 million, Ibrahim Siaka lost goods worth N65 million, Favour Victor lost goods and cash worth N140 million, and Kenneth Onwuka lost goods and cash worth N60 million.


https://punchng.com/anambra-cp-visits-onitsha-fire-scene-as-traders-recount-losses/