Chaos erupted at Accra’s busy Makola Market on Tuesday evening when an armed man sparked terror by firing multiple gunshots into the air before speeding off in an SUV.

Eyewitnesses reported the shocking incident unfolded around 7:00 p.m. near a primary entrance of the market. Without warning, the assailant—seemingly unprovoked—drew a gun and fired three shots skyward, triggering panic among traders and shoppers.

Disturbing footage circulating online captures the suspect clutching a black Land Cruiser as onlookers taunt him, shouting, “Draw it!” and “Fire!” Moments later, he brandishes his weapon, unleashes three deafening shots, and swiftly jumps into the waiting vehicle, escaping the scene.

Dozens of bystanders watched in shock as several unidentified accomplices piled into the getaway vehicle, which then accelerated toward the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange. While no casualties were reported, authorities confirmed one stray bullet struck a mobile phone at a vendor's stall.

The sudden gunfire triggered mass panic, with crowds scattering in every direction - overturning market stalls and creating pandemonium in their wake. Several merchants later reported missing inventory and cash amid the turmoil.

Police from the Accra Central Division quickly secured the area, establishing a perimeter as forensic teams began their investigation into the brazen daylight shooting

The Ghana Police Service has initiated a nationwide manhunt for the armed suspect while analyzing CCTV recordings from surrounding structures to track all perpetrators. Investigators are simultaneously working to establish the motive behind the incident, as initial reports conflict on whether the gunman reacted to provocation or acted alone. Multiple eyewitnesses reported seeing a group antagonizing the shooter moments before he brandished his firearm.

As Accra's premier commercial hub attracting both local traders and international visitors, Makola Market's reputation as a secure shopping destination has been shaken. The brazen attack has raised public concerns about urban security effectiveness, particularly given recent government investments in surveillance infrastructure across the capital.

Authorities have appealed for citizen cooperation, encouraging anyone with information to assist investigations while pledging enhanced security deployments across Accra's major markets and business districts to prevent future occurrences.