Operatives of the Nigerian Army, 14 Brigade Headquarters, Ohafia, attached to 144 Battalion (Rear) have arrested 21 suspected drug peddlers in a sting operation.

The soldiers arrested the suspects at the popular Mammy Market in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.

The Nation learnt that the soldiers who are team members of Operation Eastern Sanity, in a coordinated joint raid operation, acting on credible intelligence on alleged presence of crude oil bunkerers, illegal PMS dealers, pipeline vandals, and illicit drug traffickers operating within the market and adjoining bushes raided the area, in the early hours of today (Tuesday), in conjunction with personnel of the Nigerian Navy Component and the Nigerian Air Force 511 Quick Response Group.

Sources disclosed that upon arrival at the target area, troops of the three security agencies swiftly cordoned off and searched the entire market as well as surrounding hideouts suspected to be criminal enclaves.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade, Ohafia, Lt. Mazinho Attah, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects, disclosed that the intensive operation by the soldiers led to the arrest of 21 suspected illicit drug peddlers.

He disclosed that large quantities of Indian hemp, rizzlers, suspected hard substances popularly known as “ice,” as well as the sum of One Hundred and Three Thousand Naira, were found in the possession of the suspects.

Attah disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody, undergoing preliminary profiling and will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and prosecution.

He added that aggressive patrols and domination activities continue across the general area to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

“The Nigerian Army has reassured law-abiding residents of its unwavering commitment to sustaining pressure against criminal networks threatening peace and security in the region.” (The Nation)