By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has visited the scene of the recent fire outbreak at the Plumbing Materials Market, Headbridge, Onitsha, where he commiserated with traders who suffered losses and assured them of the Command’s support as investigations continue into the cause of the incident.
The fire, which affected parts of the busy market located around the Headbridge axis of Onitsha, destroyed goods and property belonging to several traders, throwing the victims into distress and drawing concern from residents and business operators within the commercial city. During his visit to the scene on March 22, 2026, the Police Commissioner expressed deep sympathy to those affected, describing the incident as unfortunate and painful, especially at a time many traders are struggling with economic challenges.
While assessing the level of damage, CP Orutugu disclosed that preliminary findings indicate that the fire may have been triggered by heat generated from the storage of inflammable materials, particularly plastic pipes and related items commonly sold in the market, combined with possible non-compliance with basic fire safety measures. He noted that improper storage of such materials in crowded market environments can easily lead to rapid spread of fire when exposed to high temperature or electrical sparks.
The Police boss assured traders that the Command would continue to maintain adequate security in the area to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the situation to loot shops or exploit victims, adding that officers have been directed to sustain patrols around the market and adjoining streets. He emphasized that protecting lives and property remains the priority of the Police, especially in emergency situations where affected persons may be vulnerable to further losses.
He also commended the swift response of the Fire Service and other emergency agencies whose timely intervention helped to contain the inferno before it spread to other sections of the market and nearby buildings. According to him, the prompt action of the responders played a major role in preventing casualties, as no life was lost despite the scale of the incident.
The Commissioner, who was accompanied on the visit by the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Headbridge Division, CSP Onyinaya Uche, as well as other officers and market stakeholders, used the opportunity to advise traders to strictly observe safety regulations, particularly in the handling and storage of combustible materials, warning that negligence in crowded markets often leads to avoidable disasters.
He further urged market leaders to work closely with security agencies and emergency services to enforce safety standards within trading areas, stressing that prevention remains the best way to avoid recurring fire outbreaks that result in heavy financial losses for hardworking citizens.
Meanwhile, affected traders have continued to count their losses as investigations into the incident progress, with many calling for stronger safety enforcement and improved emergency response facilities in major markets across the state. The Police Command reiterated that it will continue to support relevant authorities to ensure that such incidents are minimized, while also encouraging the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any situation capable of causing danger to lives and property.
More photos from the scene:
