By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Pandemonium engulfed the Fruit Market in the Oil Mill area of Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after a wheelbarrow pusher allegedly stabbed a trader to death during a heated altercation.
The suspect, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, was said to have attacked the trader, Higightor Wenem, following a disagreement over space in the busy market on Saturday morning.
Eyewitnesses said trouble began when Afaaruwu positioned his wheelbarrow in a manner that obstructed other traders from displaying their goods, sparking complaints.
Traders reportedly urged him to remove the wheelbarrow to ease congestion, but he refused, leading to a heated exchange between him and the victim.
In the course of the argument, Afaaruwu allegedly drew a dagger and stabbed Wenem, a 30-year-old native of Mbagel Village in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.
The victim was immediately rushed to the Military Hospital in Port Harcourt, but doctors confirmed him dead on arrival.
The killing triggered tension in the market, as members of the Hausa community and other traders clashed in the aftermath, raising fears of wider unrest.
Police operatives swiftly intervened, restoring calm and preventing escalation of the situation, while the suspect was arrested at the scene.
Police spokesperson, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect is in custody, the corpse has been deposited in the morgue for autopsy, and investigations are ongoing, while residents have been urged to remain calm and law-abiding.
Blood on the Barrow: Trader Slain in Port Harcourt Market Clash
