By Michaella Faith Wright
In a concerted effort to address the escalating issue of the deadly Kush drug within their communities, stakeholders from diverse backgrounds convened at the Harbour Police Divisional Headquarters on Ross Road, Freetown, on Saturday, March 30, 2024. Led by the Harbour Police Division’s Local Policing Partnership Board (LPPB) Chairman, Mr. Melbourne Greene, the gathering aimed to devise effective strategies to combat the proliferation of illicit drugs, particularly Kush, which has garnered national and international attention.
During the meeting, community leaders, including Chief Ya Bom Posseh Kalokoh of Mamba Ridge and Chief Pa Almamy Conteh Ansarr the 2nd of Cline Town and Kanikay Communities, emphasized the crucial role of local chiefs in mobilizing their communities to tackle the Kush menace. Chief Kalokoh expressed concerns about the future of their children if the issue remains unaddressed, advocating for empowerment of local leaders in the fight against illicit drugs.
Addressing the attendees, Amara Kallon, the Senior Information and Communications Officer of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, urged against politicizing the fight against drugs and called for community support for law enforcement agencies. He emphasized the need for effective legislation to prosecute drug offenders, echoing similar sentiments from SLPP Councillor Abu Bakarr Tejan Jalloh, who lamented the tragic consequences of Kush abuse in his ward.
LUC Emmanuel Kpulun, commended the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, for his support in combating the Kush epidemic. He highlighted the efforts of law enforcement in apprehending drug lords and demolishing ghettos, calling for continued collaboration and support from the community.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Brima Meinday, proposed the establishment of a specialized court for speedy trials of Kush and drug-related offenses, a suggestion endorsed by several speakers.
The meeting also saw active participation from grassroots organizations, youth groups, and representatives from educational institutions, underscoring the broad-based approach necessary to address the multifaceted challenges posed by drug proliferation.
Moreover, stakeholders emphasized the importance of holistic interventions, including community education, rehabilitation programs for drug users, and socioeconomic initiatives to address underlying factors driving drug abuse.
The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks by Mrs. Hannah Gombo Sesay, as attendees enjoyed light refreshments and a musical concert, marking the culmination of a productive and inclusive dialogue.
The event underscored the collective commitment of community stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and government officials to tackle the Kush menace comprehensively and safeguard the well-being of Sierra Leonean communities.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, April 5th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
