Panic erupted at Owaza Mammy Market in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State as heavily armed security operatives launched a surprise raid that led to the arrest of 21 suspected drug traffickers and criminal elements.
The dramatic operation, executed under Operation Eastern Sanity, saw troops of the 144 Battalion (Rear) of the Nigerian Army, alongside personnel of the Nigerian Navy Component and the Nigerian Air Force 511 Quick Response Group, swoop on the market and surrounding bushes after intelligence reports exposed alleged illegal activities in the area.
Residents watched in shock as security forces cordoned off the market, sealing all escape routes before conducting a massive search of suspected hideouts linked to crude oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, illegal petroleum dealings, and drug trafficking.
During the operation, troops reportedly uncovered large quantities of illicit substances, including Indian hemp, rizzlers, and suspected hard drugs known as “ice.” Security operatives also recovered ₦103,000 allegedly connected to the illegal trade.
