Troops arrest 3 suspects, recover stolen truck in Abia

The Nigerian Army said troops of 144 Battalion, operating under Operation EASTERN SANITY, have arrested three suspected criminals and recovered a stolen Mack truck during a routine night patrol in Abia State.

The operation was carried out in the early hours of February 11, 2026, at the Akpaa area, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected criminal elements within the locality. Acting swiftly on the information, the troops mobilised to the scene and apprehended three suspects.

The arrested individuals were identified as  Darlington Ubochi, 25, from Ugwunagbo Local Government Area; Mr. Chinedu Abara, 33; and Mr. Julius Chinemem Godwin, 29, both from Obingwa Local Government,Abia State.The suspects were found in possession of a Mack truck with registration number :T 4477 LA, which had reportedly been stolen on February 8, 2026, along Port Harcourt Road, Aba, before being parked at Opobo Junction.

Preliminary investigations confirmed that the vehicle had been declared stolen prior to its recovery. Efforts are ongoing to move the recovered truck to the 144 Battalion Forward Operating Base in Osisioma, while the suspects remain in military custody pending further investigation and subsequent handover to the appropriate authorities. The Nigerian Army stated that the operation aligns with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, which emphasises the decisive discharge of constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

Military authorities noted that the successful operation reflects the Brigade’s sustained commitment to denying criminal elements freedom of action and ensuring the security of lives and property within its Area of Responsibility.