The offenders were mostly people who refused to close their shops and stalls between 7am and 11am stipulated for the special sanitation exercise.
The Managing Director of the agency, Mrs. Njideka Oredu, who led the exercise, expressed dismay over the refusal of shop owners to obey the sanitation order.
"Today, we said shops, offices and markets in Awka must be closed between 7am and 11am to enforce the sanitation. Our people have lived with this kind of environment for a long time. We know that change is hard.
"So, we went on air to sensitise the people on the exercise before time; but it seemed some people wanted the government to enforce sanitation before they will adapt to the change," she said.
She expressed regret that people blocked drains with refuse by refusing to utilise the receptacles mounted in strategic areas.
According to her, the agency is determined to ensure a cleaner, hygienic and sustainable environment for the present and future generations of the people.
Oredu said the exercise was in line with the directive of Governor Willie Obiano, who ordered that the state must be an exemplary in the area of cleanliness.
The managing director said the state government had procured 30 refuse compactors and over 200 receptacles for the agency.
"We started the exercise here in Awka today. By next week, we will be in Nnewi and other places subsequently," she added.
According to her, offenders will pay between N10,000 and N50,000 fine for flouting the sanitation order, adding that anyone who failed to pay the fine, would be prosecuted.