Troops nab 21 suspected drug traffickers in Abia community market
Troops Conduct Raid in Abia State to Combat Illegal Activities
Owoza, Abia State — Troops from the 144 Battalion (Rear) conducted a coordinated raid at the Mammy Market in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area on Tuesday as part of Operation Eastern Sanity.
The operation was prompted by reports of crude oil bunkering, illegal sale of premium motor spirit (PMS), pipeline vandalism, and drug trafficking in the area.
During the raid, 21 individuals suspected of involvement in drug trafficking were apprehended. The operation was executed in collaboration with personnel from the Nigerian Navy and the 511 Quick Response Group of the Nigerian Air Force.
Mazinho Attah, acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 14 Brigade in Abia State, reported that upon reaching the targeted location, troops effectively cordoned off the market and inspected both the market and nearby areas believed to harbor criminal activity.
The operation resulted in the seizure of substantial quantities of Indian hemp, rolling papers, and substances commonly referred to as “ice,” alongside a cash sum of N103,000.
“The suspects are currently in custody for preliminary profiling and will be transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and prosecution,” Attah stated.
He also indicated that enhanced patrols and surveillance efforts are ongoing in the area to impede further criminal activities.
