Troops of 144 Battalion arrest suspected criminals, recover stolen truck in Abia

In line with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM’s Command Philosophy, which seeks to decisively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment. troops of 144 Battalion (Rear), operating under Operation EASTERN SANITY, have successfully arrested three suspected criminals and recovered a stolen Mack truck during a routine night patrol.

Public Relations officer, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Mazinho Attah, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday.

Captain Attah said the operation was conducted in the early hours of 11 February 2026 at the Akpaa area following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected criminal elements within the locality.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, troops mobilised to the scene and effected the arrest of three suspects namely: Mr Darlington Ubochi -25 from Ugwunagbo LGA; Mr Chinedu Abara -33 and Mr Julius Chinemem Godwin – 29, both from Obingwa LGA of Abia State”, he said.

According to him, the suspects were apprehended in possession of a Mack truck with registration number T 4477 LA, which was reportedly stolen on 8 February 2026 from Port Harcourt road Aba, and later parked at Opobo Junction.

“A preliminary investigation confirms that the vehicle had been declared stolen prior to its recovery.

“Efforts are ongoing to move the recovered truck to 144 Battalion Forward Operating Base, Osisioma, while the suspects remain in military custody pending further investigation and subsequent handover to appropriate authorities.

“This successful operation underscores 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.

“Further updates will be communicated as investigations progress”.