Army Arrests Three Suspected Arms Dealers in Abia

Troops from the Headquarters, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, have arrested three suspected arms dealers. They also seized weapons and ammunition during a security operation in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.

The operation took place early on Sunday. It is part of the army's efforts to fight illegal arms and improve security in the state.

Mazinho Attah, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 14 Brigade, said, "Troops of 14 Brigade Garrison and 14 Military Intelligence Regiment, in collaboration with other security agencies, conducted a cordon-and-search operation at Amaetiti Iheshiowa community in Arochukwu LGA."

The operation followed solid intelligence reports about the spread of arms and ammunition in the area. During the operation, security officials arrested three suspects: Francis Ifere (37), Oso Kalu (40), and Ifere Oti (32). They recovered seven locally made dane guns, twenty-two live cartridges, and one motorcycle believed to be linked to these activities.

The troops also took a bus belonging to Stephen Kalu, who reportedly ran away before security forces arrived. The Nigerian Army said troops in various battalion areas have been stepping up night patrols and security operations. They aim to limit the movement of criminals and protect lives and property.

The military views this latest operation as a significant win in its fight against crime and illegal arms in the South-East. The 14 Brigade Headquarters promised to keep up aggressive security operations with other security agencies. They aim to ensure lasting peace and security in Abia State and nearby areas.