By Precious D. Freeman
The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Justice, has found George Ikpehehukwu, a Nigerian national infamously known as “Original Japan,” and three others guilty for the crimes of unlawful maintenance and sale of controlled drugs.
Judge Dixon’s ruling resulted in the acquittal of four of the eight defendants. Co-defendants Sunday Udeh, Edwin Ozioko, Igwe David, and Ivan Jamo were cleared of all charges related to the unlawful distribution and sale of controlled substances, as well as criminal conspiracy.
The court found that the evidence, particularly the testimony of Principal Defendant George Obi, did not support the involvement of these defendants in the alleged crimes.
However, the prosecution successfully proved its case against the remaining four defendants. George Obi, along with co-defendants Peter Mamah, Ndubuisi Okonkwo, and Bridgestone Harris, was found guilty of unlawful distribution and possession of controlled drugs, as well as criminal conspiracy.
The arrest of Ikpehehukwu earlier this year was lauded as a major victory in Liberia’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking and abuse.
Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) former Director Abraham Kromah described the arrest as a pivotal moment in the fight to rid the nation of illicit drugs, which have had a devastating impact on communities, particularly the youth.
“We will not cease in this fight against drugs because this situation is affecting a number of people, especially our youth,” Col. Kromah stated following the arrest.
He emphasized the negative consequences drug activities had on neighborhoods like Sayon Town, where residents lived in fear due to a surge in crime fueled by drug users. “Drug users, after taking the drugs, would hijack innocent people and take away their properties. This is a war we must fight together,” he added.
However, he urged the government to increase budgetary support for the agency to bolster its operations.
“This is our first operation, and we will continue with even more. I am going to ensure that those arrested today are fully prosecuted by the law of this country,” he affirmed.
The suspects, including Ikpehehukwu and another Nigerian national, Sunday Odeh, were apprehended following a whistleblower’s tip-off. They were found in possession of a large quantity of cocaine, heroin, tramadol, and other narcotics valued at approximately LRD$5 million.
The operation, part of the LDEA’s mission to support the government’s efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking, was conducted smoothly and without incident, according to the agency.
Meanwhile, the Liberia National Police (LNP) continues its investigation into the alleged drug cartel, which authorities believe was orchestrating the distribution of narcotics in the region.
Despite the mounting evidence, Ikpehehukwu has maintained his innocence, denying involvement in the drug trade. His trial, expected to begin soon, will mark a crucial step in determining his culpability.
The arrest and subsequent indictment of George Ikpehehukwu have been seen as a significant breakthrough in Liberia’s fight against the growing drug epidemic.
The case highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts between law enforcement, the judiciary, and communities to combat the proliferation of narcotics and safeguard Liberia’s future.
