The Special Anambra Anti-Touting Squad (SASA) faced a violent encounter with traders at the pharmaceutical market in Onitsha, which resulted in acid attacks on its operatives. This incident occurred during the weekend when the operatives tried to apprehend a tout at the Niger Bridge Head.

SASA, established by the Anambra State Government to enforce a law prohibiting routing and revenue collection by touts in the state, found themselves in a deadly situation. One individual lost their life in the market during the altercation, and a graduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, was fatally shot.

Mr. Solomon Chukwuebuka, the Director of SASA, conveyed through the Public Relations Officer of Anambra Vigilant Group, Mr. Nweke, that the traders’ response was deeply regrettable as they chose to attack SASA operatives instead of assisting in the apprehension of the tout.

Nweke recounted the harrowing events, stating, “On Friday 16th of February, 2024, our men were on our usual official assignment to rid the Niger Bridge Head area of touts who stationed themselves there, extorting money from transport operators and buyers from the surrounding markets. As our men went after the culprits, some of the market traders launched massive acid attacks on them. Four, out seven of our men, sustained life threatening injuries from the acid attack and doctors are currently battling to save their lives.”

He further expressed disappointment in the traders’ actions and emphasized the need for collaboration with the private sector to combat crime and contribute to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of making Anambra a safe and prosperous state.

The market leaders’ response to the incident raised questions about their role in supporting law enforcement efforts. Rather than assisting in maintaining law and order, they provided protection to a suspected violator of the law, undermining the government’s objectives.

This episode underscores the challenges in enforcing the law and maintaining public order while seeking the support and cooperation of all sectors, including the private market entities. Governor Soludo’s commitment to eliminating touts and extortionists requires unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve a safer and more prosperous Anambra State.