Troops of the Nigerian Army have disrupted a suspected drug den in Umuahia, Abia State, arresting three individuals during an intelligence-driven raid carried out under Operation Eastern Sanity.
The operation was conducted by personnel of 145 Battalion (Rear) in collaboration with Operation Crush Sector 1, following credible intelligence reports of illicit drug activities at a notorious location along New Road, Umuahia.
According to a statement by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Mazinho Attah, the security team swiftly deployed to the area on March 13, 2026, where they successfully raided the suspected drug hideout and apprehended three male suspects.
The suspects were identified as Henrick Sunday (42), Nnadozie Jacob (23), and Darlington Mba (23).
A search conducted at the premises led to the recovery of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, Methamphetamine, and other unidentified illicit drugs. Other items recovered during the raid included several mobile phones, a dagger, and cash.
The Nigerian Army described the operation as part of ongoing intelligence-led efforts aimed at curbing the proliferation of illicit drugs and dismantling criminal networks operating within communities in the South-East.
Security authorities noted that the abuse and trafficking of hard drugs have often been linked to other forms of criminal activities, making such operations critical to enhancing security and public safety.
Following the raid, the arrested suspects and recovered exhibits were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Umuahia Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The 14 Brigade Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustained collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies in tackling drug-related crimes and other threats to peace and stability in the region.
Residents were also encouraged to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist in identifying and addressing criminal activities within their communities.
