The Abia State Police Command has arrested a butcher for allegedly stabbing a customer in the neck with a pair of scissors following a disagreement over the price of meat at a market in Umuahia.
The incident reportedly occurred at Orie Ugba Market in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Maureen Chinaka, said operatives from the Central Police Station responded swiftly after receiving a report of the incident.
Chinaka explained that the victim was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical attention and is currently responding to treatment.
She said, “The Abia State Police Command is aware of the incident that occurred at Orieugba Market on March 14, 2026, where a meat butcher stabbed his customer in the neck with a pair of scissors following a disagreement over the price of meat.”
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The police spokesperson added that the suspect has been taken into custody while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
She further stated that the suspect would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Residents of Orie Ugba Market expressed shock over the incident, describing it as an unusual outbreak of violence in the usually bustling market. Many shoppers and traders said the disagreement quickly escalated, leaving bystanders in panic before police arrived to restore order.
Market authorities confirmed that the affected section of the market was temporarily closed following the stabbing, allowing security operatives and medical personnel to attend to the victim and investigate the scene. Vendors also said they hope stricter enforcement of market rules will prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Abia State Police Command urged members of the public to remain calm and report any disputes promptly to law enforcement rather than resorting to violence. They also reminded traders that disagreements over prices or services must be resolved peacefully and within the confines of the law.
NAN
