The Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) has said that the New Artisan Market had become a notorious criminal hideout, thus it was demolished.
Beyond the sell of cow meat, foodstuffs and suya, criminal activities had long been reported in the market.
At last, the government took the bold step in the interest of peace and security of the people by demolishing the market on Wednesday.
Chairman of ECTDA, Hon. Uche Anya who lamented the level of crime in the environment declared that, “this is no ordinary market.
“It has become a haven for armed robbers, kidnappers, and the trafficking of illegal weapons. There are even cells for kidnappers hidden within its walls. While we have no issue with legitimate cow meat traders, the real threats come from brothels, kidnapper dens, and illicit drug activities.
“No serious government can condone what has transpired at New Artisan Market,” Anya emphasized, acknowledging that previous administrations had tried to tackle the problem, but asserting, “This place will never exist in its former state again.”
Reassuring the community, Anya announced plans to relocate the legitimate cow traders to a more suitable environment, revealing that arrangements are already being finalized with the market’s leaders to ensure a smoother transition.
