President of the Ogbaru Main Market Amalgamated Traders Union in Anambra State, Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu, has issued a stern warning to criminals, urging them to stay away from the market or face severe consequences if caught.

Ochiogu stated that the market is now fully fortified with modern detective devices and CCTV cameras, making it difficult for anyone attempting nefarious activities to escape detection.

He said: “Any criminal entering the market, day or night, should be prepared to face the consequences.”

The warning came during the handover of a suspected criminal to the police. The suspect, apprehended by market security operatives, had broken into several shops weeks earlier but was identified and tracked through CCTV footage.

Ochiogu emphasized that times have changed and criminals no longer enjoy free rein in the market. He explained that even if criminals evade immediate detection, the advanced surveillance systems will eventually capture and expose them.

He pointed to recent incidents where suspects were arrested after being recorded on camera committing crimes, with several already handed over to the police for investigation and prosecution.

Reflecting on his three-year tenure, Ochiogu highlighted key achievements of his administration. These include attracting six polling units to the market, enabling traders to vote conveniently, as demonstrated during the recent Anambra Governorship election.

His leadership has also facilitated the installation of functional water boreholes, fire extinguishers, solar-powered lights, and CCTV cameras across the market.

Additionally, the administration cleared an outstanding electricity bill of N11 million.

Ochiogu said: “Before our administration, floods and fires frequently damaged goods and disrupted market activities. Today, these challenges have been addressed, ensuring traders can operate safely and securely.”