Pandemonium broke out in Onitsha main market on Wednesday as traders ran for safety following the shooting of a vigilante security by a police officer.

It was gathered that police officers numbering about eight stormed Emeka Offor Plaza in the main market to make an arrest when a disagreement ensued between the police and some members of the vigilante.

The altercation led to the shooting of one of the vigilante officers.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Haruna Mohammed, said in a statement: “There was an altercation between Policemen who went on inquiry at “Our Lord Plaza” in Onitsha Main Market and some Vigilante group today 17/9/2019 at about 1:30pm.

“As a result, a Vigilante member was shot on the leg and two other persons also sustained injuries.”

Mohammed said that both victims were taken to the hospital and are responding to treatment.

According to him, the situation was brought under control through the concerted efforts of the Police led by the Area Commander Onitsha and market leaders.

The PPRO added: “Normalcy was restored and people are going about their lawful business.

“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police CP John B. Abang has ordered for a discreet investigation to ascertain circumstances surrounding the incident after which perpetrators will be brought to book.”