02/22/2024 – 07:44
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, under the leadership of Director General Abraham Kromah, on Wednesday, February 21, conducted a successful operation in Sayon Town, apprehending several alleged drug dealers, including a notorious Nigerian national, George Ikepehekwu Obi alias “Original Japan.” The arrests were made in an effort to combat drug-related crimes and ensure community safety, Kromah said.
The operation resulted in the seizure of a considerable quantity of drugs and kush, marking a significant step in addressing illicit drug activities in the region. Director Kromah highlighted the agency’s commitment to fighting drug trafficking and protecting citizens from the harmful effects of illegal substances.
Others arrested along with Original Japan were Hawa Tamba, Shelly Sheaton, Peter Momoh, and Edwin Ozioko. The others are Brigston Harris, Igwe David, Ndubuis, Okoronkwo, Chima Ekwe, Sunday Udeh, and Efam Jama, among others.
The alleged perpetrators behind the drug manufacturing activities are reported to be Nigerian nationals, raising concerns about transnational drug trafficking networks operating within the region.
The Sayon Town raid or operation, many believe, lays the groundwork for what many Liberians perceive as an essential first step in addressing and countering this significant national security threat.
Kromah emphasized the importance of such operations in safeguarding communities and upholding the rule of law. “The LDEA remains steadfast in its mission to combat drug trafficking and protect our citizens from the harmful effects of illicit substances,” stated Kromah.
According to him, the fight against drugs in Liberia is alarming and as such, it needs the attention of every citizen to join on board to get rid of this national menace.
He further said that in order for the agency to be more robust in the fight against the country, it needs to be effectively supported by the national government with an appropriate budgetary allocation.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai had previously declared substance abuse a public health emergency, emphasizing the need for collective action to address this national security threat.
The declaration was made amid growing waves of drug-related deaths, involving young people and the arrests of hundreds of drug traffickers and users in Liberia regularly, concerned stakeholders have sprung into action.
He said that illicit drugs especially “KUSH” are destroying the future of the country.
“The drug epidemic, especially the use of “KUSH”, in our country is an existential threat eating away at the future of our children and the country. We must stand up and face this national security risk together. Given the need for immediate action to make good my pledge to the thousands of families burdened by this crisis, I am hereby declaring Drugs and Substance abuse as a Public Health Emergency,” Boakai said.
However, the successful raid in Sayon Town sets the tone for the effectiveness and efficiency of the LDEA in disrupting drug networks and holding perpetrators accountable.
By disrupting drug networks and apprehending alleged perpetrators, the agency sends a clear message that drug-related crimes will not be tolerated, officials noted.
The LDEA remains dedicated to collaborating with communities and stakeholders to combat drug trafficking and create a safer environment for all Liberians.
The community’s response to the operation was overwhelmingly positive, with many residents expressing relief and gratitude for the enforcement efforts.
Cheers and congratulatory messages filled the air as the LDEA team, accompanied by Director General Kromah, escorted the suspects to court for further investigation and prosecution.
