Vendors Scatter – By Azara Lavia
Vendors Scatter Hear Bap
Vendors operating within the Public Market were sent scrambling for safety on Thursday after gunshots erupted near the West Bus Station, leaving two young men injured.
The shooting occurred in the busy thoroughfare shortly after midday.
Speaking exclusively to Observer Media, vendors described moments of fear and confusion as multiple gunshots rang out, causing people in the area to flee.
One vendor said she was working inside the market when she heard gunshots and saw people running for safety.
“I was bagging out onions and then all of a sudden, I hear gunshots firing off. And then when I look across there, I see people running back and forth,” she said.
She said the incident has left market operators feeling vulnerable while plying their trade, adding that individuals who work in the area are now fearful about their safety.
“I feel scared, not protected. You know, like you got to always be on alert for these guys,” the vendor said.
She is calling for an increased police presence, stronger security measures, and more frequent patrols, including support from soldiers, to help improve safety in the area.
Another vendor recounted the frightening moments, saying she was carrying out her daily activities when she heard what sounded like multiple gunshots.
“I go and pick up a box and next thing you know I hear bap, bap. But I thought, I don’t know which side this sound coming from,” she said.
The vendor said she later learned that two young men had been shot near the market area and that people began running for safety.
“Next thing somebody tell me two bodies drop down right in front of the market, and then people start to run,” she said.
She added that the incident has heightened concerns among vendors and others who frequent the area.
“I am afraid. We are not safe here,” she said.
Video from the scene shows police officers and Emergency Medical Technicians attending to the two injured men before they were transported to hospital by ambulance. The extent of their injuries is not known.
There are unconfirmed reports that the two injured men may be associated with gang activity; however, police have not confirmed this information.
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing.
