Okposi Elite Group Warns Criminal Cartels Against Using Community as Hideout

The Okposi e-8 Organization, a Pan-Okposi socio-cultural elite group in Ebonyi State, has warned foreign and local criminal cartels, drug networks and unlawful syndicates against using Okposi communities as operational bases or hideouts.

The warning followed the alleged discovery of a clandestine drug laboratory by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Isiata Ugoni Okposi, Ebonyi State.

According to a statement issued by the Okposi e-8 Organization and signed by Chief Morgan Mmahi, the group expressed concern over the alleged drug laboratory while commending the NDLEA for what it described as a professional and intelligence-led operation.

The organisation praised the NDLEA officers involved in the investigation, tracing of suspects and recovery of dangerous chemicals and equipment, saying their efforts underscored the importance of effective law enforcement in protecting communities from criminal activities.

It also commended sons and daughters of Okposi, residents and community leaders for their cooperation with the agency, particularly through the provision of information and assistance that contributed to the operation.

The group said the development was a reminder of the collective responsibility of residents to protect the community and prevent criminal elements from exploiting the area.

“According to the statement, Okposi has produced globally acclaimed professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, artisans, leaders and great youths who have distinguished themselves in legitimate endeavours, adding that the community is widely recognised for its hospitality, enterprise and hard work.”

However, the organisation stressed that the community’s traditional hospitality should not be interpreted as tolerance or weakness towards criminality.

“Let this be a clear warning particularly to every foreign or local criminal cartel, drug network and unlawful syndicates: Do not come to Okposi Community,” the statement said.

The group warned criminal elements against attempting to use Okposi communities, forests, homes, farmlands or neighbourhoods as hideouts for illegal drugs, violence, human trafficking, financial crimes or other activities capable of threatening residents and the wider society.

It further stated that residents would not shield or harbour individuals involved in criminal activities, stressing that anyone seeking to exploit the community for unlawful purposes would face exposure and appropriate action by the relevant authorities.

The Okposi e-8 Organization subsequently called on Okposi indigenes at home and in the diaspora to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, unusual movements, unfamiliar structures and strange chemical odours to security agencies.

The group emphasised that community vigilance and early reporting could help security agencies prevent potentially serious threats before they escalate.

The organisation reaffirmed Okposi’s commitment to peace and pledged continued cooperation with the NDLEA and other security agencies in efforts to safeguard the community.

It said the community would continue to welcome visitors, investors, friends and partners who come for legitimate purposes, while maintaining a firm position against criminal activities capable of damaging the reputation, safety and future of Okposi.