Christmas Rush: Market Women, Wheelbarrow Pushers Nab Suspected Thief from Abia at Eke Awka

By Our Correspondent

The mad rush for Christmas shopping at Eke Awka Market reportedly turned dramatic when market women, wheelbarrow pushers and other traders joined forces to apprehend a man accused of attempting to flee with allegedly stolen cash and mobile phones.

The suspect, identified by people at the scene as Chigozie, and said to be from Lokpanta in Abia State, was reportedly caught after market women raised the alarm over an alleged theft.

Eyewitnesses said the alarm triggered a hot chase through the crowded market, with wheelbarrow pushers and other members of the public joining the pursuit before the suspect was eventually apprehended.

The suspect was accused of stealing a bag containing about ₦300,000 and mobile phones.

There were also claims that the suspect had allegedly been operating around Eke Awka Market and the Gariki cattle market area.

However, there was no police confirmation of the incident as of press time.

The incident comes amid the growing Christmas shopping rush, with traders and shoppers flooding markets to buy food, clothing and other items for the festive season.

The heavy crowds, however, also create opportunities for pickpockets and other thieves to operate.

A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, advised traders and shoppers to remain vigilant, avoid displaying large amounts of cash, and keep their phones and other valuables secure.

He said members of the public should not take the law into their own hands, adding that suspects apprehended in such circumstances should be handed over to the police for investigation and possible prosecution.