By Thaimu T. Kamara
The local unit commander (LUC) of the Kambia police division, chief superintendent of Police (CSP) Sao Vandy, on Monday, 8 December 2025, led a community engagement and sensitization campaign in Rokupr, Kambia district, the outreach sought to deepen security cooperation with residents, curb the rise in harmful drug use, prevent criminal activities, and reinforce the mandatory use of lifejackets for sea travelers.
CSP Vandy, accompanied by his operations team, visited key community areas including the Rokupr Wharf, where he met with stakeholders, youth groups, transport operators, and the Marine unit, he warned community members about the dangers of drug abuse particularly tramadol, cannabis sativa, and the deadly synthetic drug Kush, which he said continues to claim the lives of young people across Sierra Leone.
He explained that harmful drugs adversely affect the brain, judgment, mood, behavior, and vital organs, often resulting in lifelong health complications. CSP Vandy strongly discouraged residents from selling, smuggling, or consuming illegal drugs, emphasizing that Kush remains one of the most destructive substances circulating in communities.
Calling for stronger collaboration, he urged residents to remain vigilant, monitor suspicious activities, and report drug-related incidents promptly, the police rely on timely and accurate information from the public to maintain peace and security, he noted.
Addressing the Marine unit, CSP Vandy issued firm instructions to ensure every boat passenger wears a lifejacket before any departure. He also ordered officers to conduct thorough checks on all vessels for drugs or other security concerns, and he cautioned boat captains against using drugs while on duty.
Stakeholders, youth leaders, and transport operators welcomed the LUC’s intervention, expressing appreciation for his engagement and pledging full cooperation with the security directives.
As part of ongoing enforcement, CSP Vandy and his team conducted targeted patrols within the township, during the operation, they raided a known drug hideout locally called “Banga Farm” in the Bamio Luma community. Makeshift structures were demolished, and several youths fled the area as officers approached.
Anyone found loitering in this location will be arrested, investigated, and charged to court, CSP Vandy warned, residents are encouraged to continue supporting the police in their efforts to combat drug abuse and enhance community safety across Kambia District.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 10th December 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
