On January 10, recognized as emergency phone number day—or '110 day'—the Okinawa Prefectural Police hosted a significant event aimed at combating special fraud, featuring local actor Onno Makiko as the one-day police chief. The event was held at Kitayama High School located in Nakijin Village, where over 400 students and local residents gathered to learn about fraud prevention.
Onno Makiko, who has made Nakijin her home and runs her own restaurant, took on the ceremonial role to raise awareness about the alarming rise of special fraud cases targeting residents, especially the youth. Under the supervision of police chief Tamayori Takahiro, she addressed the crowd, delivering key messages about the dangers of engaging with shady work opportunities often referred to as 'dark jobs.'
During her speech, Onno stressed the importance of using the emergency phone number appropriately and educated attendees on how to identify and avoid potential scams. "I think it would be good if people could be careful not to become victims of special fraud and not to be involved in crimes," she stated, encouraging young people to think critically about the offers they receive.
The initiative was part of broader efforts by the Okinawa police to combat the surge of fraud incidents, which have seen troubling increases over recent years. Young individuals are often targeted due to their naivety and lack of experience. During the event, Onno informed attendees about the pernicious nature of dark job advertisements and urged them to discuss any suspicious proposals with parents or police rather than succumb to potential exploitation.
Onno's appointment as one-day police chief provided not only education but also inspiration for young and old alike to take ownership of their community's safety. Her commitment to local issues resonates with many who admire her genuine approach and her open engagement with the audience. The event served as both a cautionary tale and empowering discourse, establishing the need for vigilance and community responsibility.
Having gained recognition through roles such as the heroine of NHK's popular drama series, Onno now brings her celebrity status to bear on serious societal issues, delivering messages of hope and caution. The Okinawa Prefectural Police hope to engage with community members continuously, fostering stronger relationships to thwart fraud attempts.
This timely event aligns with Okinawa police's persistent mission of protecting citizens from fraudulent activities and empowering individuals with knowledge about safe practices. Onno Makiko’s efforts embody the spirit of collaboration necessary to build awareness around such pressing matters, making the community at large vigilant against potential fraudsters.