Reported by Simon Daniel Yusuph l Journalist at Weng Global
The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old man suspected of stealing and reselling motorcycles and recovered three motorcycles, a locally made gun and a 50kg bag containing substances suspected to be cannabis.
The arrest followed an intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Onitsha Ngwa, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State, according to a report published on September 24, 2026.
Police said the operation was conducted on Wednesday, September 23, following actionable intelligence concerning a suspected criminal hideout in the area.
Police Raid Suspected Criminal Hideout
According to the report, police operatives arrived at the location and several suspects fled after noticing the presence of the security personnel.
The officers reportedly recovered a locally made single-barrel long gun and a 50kg bag containing substances suspected to be Cannabis sativa.
The police subsequently continued their investigation into the suspected criminal network operating in the area.
The command later arrested a suspect identified as Ebuka Nwakerindu, a 20-year-old resident of Umuokoromiri Village in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Police alleged that Nwakerindu specialised in stealing and reselling motorcycles.
Three motorcycles suspected to have been stolen were reportedly recovered from him during the operation.
Investigation Continues
The police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend other suspects who escaped during the raid.
The recovered firearm, motorcycles and suspected cannabis were taken into police custody as investigations continued.
The command also indicated that the arrested suspect would be charged to court after the completion of the investigation.
At the time of reporting, the available account did not indicate that Nwakerindu had been convicted of any offence. The allegations against him remain subject to investigation and possible judicial proceedings.
Abia Police Intensify Intelligence-Led Operations
The arrest comes amid continued efforts by the Abia State Police Command to disrupt criminal networks through intelligence gathering and targeted operations.
A September 2026 operational summary attributed to the Abia State Police Command said the command had recorded arrests linked to cult-related offences, recovered firearms and rescued victims in separate operations.
The same summary said police had recovered stolen vehicles, including tricycles and motorcycles, while substances suspected to be cannabis and other illicit drugs had also been seized and were to be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation.
The command has also emphasised collaboration with other security agencies, including the NDLEA, as part of efforts to tackle drug-related and other criminal activities in the state.
What Happens Next
Police investigations are expected to focus on establishing the ownership of the three recovered motorcycles, determining the source and intended destination of the suspected cannabis, and identifying any other individuals connected to the alleged activities.
The police are also expected to continue efforts to locate suspects who fled the hideout during the operation.
If the investigation produces sufficient evidence, the arrested suspect is expected to face criminal proceedings after the police conclude their investigation.
For now, the recovery of the firearm, suspected cannabis and motorcycles remains part of an ongoing police investigation, and the allegations against the arrested man have not been established by a court.
Weng Global – stories beyond borders
Sources
- Abia State Police Command
- Asenexpress
