Chaos unfolded on Friday in the bustling towns of Onitsha and Nnewi in Anambra State as gunshots were fired by unidentified gunmen, leading to the disruption of commercial and business activities.

The situation prompted markets, schools, and banks in the area to be affected, causing an abrupt closure of trading activities in prominent markets such as Onitsha Main Market, Ochanja Central Market, Relief Market, and Head Bridge Markets.

Additionally, banks swiftly shut their doors, denying access to customers who intended to conduct various banking transactions.

As a result of the situation, several schools contacted parents who promptly rushed to pick up their children.

Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police command had issued a statement urging residents to carry on with their lawful activities without succumbing to panic amid circulating rumors and urging people to remain indoors on Friday.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, clarified in the statement that the panic was instigated by individuals spreading false security alerts and sharing doctored old videos of security incidents with the intention of creating tension and panic in the state.

Despite the reassurances from the police, residents and traders remained skeptical about the security measures in place, asserting that law enforcement agencies such as the Police, Army, Navy, DSS, and NSCDC were rarely visible on the streets of Anambra State on Mondays.

Okechukwu Emelummadu, a trader at Onitsha Main Market, expressed his opinion, stating that “We have Police, Army, Navy with their numerous check points where they extort money and cause traffic snarl. But it is funny that you cannot see the Policemen, Army, and other security operatives on the streets particularly in Onitsha and Nnewi, the two economic strength towns of the state to protect lives and properties.”

A statement issued by the PPRO, Anambra State’, reads in part “The Anambra State Police Command, today 7/7/2023, has observed with great dismay, the mischievous act of persons sharing false security alerts/messages, and doctored old videos of security incidents to cause tension/panic in the state. Given the above, the Command shall invoke relevant cyber laws on persons found wanting in this regard.

“Meanwhile, the Command has noted that the confidence reposed on us by Ndi Anambra in the protection of lives and properties shall not be taken for granted. The Police with other security forces have intensified patrols, improved security dominance and surveillance in the state.” It added