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On Saturday, May 18, 2024, the Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police Force, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, participated in a float parade and campaign organized by the Kissy Police Division aimed at combating the rising issue of Kush consumption and substance abuse.
The event, which underscored community involvement in addressing drug-related problems, saw active participation from various local entities and stakeholders.
The awareness campaign, spearheaded by the Local Unit Commander of the Kissy Police Division, was conducted in collaboration with the Local Policing Partnership Board (LPPB), Area Policing Partnership Committees (APPCs), Motor Drivers’ Union, students, and other community members.
The primary goal was to educate the public on the severe dangers posed by Kush and other substances, emphasizing the necessity for collective action to eradicate these threats.
The procession began at Shell Old Road, led by a convoy of bike riders. Participants included the Inspector General, senior police officers, partnership board members, and community stakeholders, all carrying placards with messages such as “Say No To Kush,” “Kush Must Go,” and “Together, We Can Win This Fight!” The march proceeded through Kissy Old Road, engaging onlookers and pedestrians with information about the harmful effects of drug abuse, culminating at the Kissy Police Barracks playing field.
During the gathering at the playing field, several speakers addressed the crowd, reinforcing the campaign’s objectives. ACP Francis Brima Meinday, Regional Commander of Freetown-East, stressed that the fight against Kush is a collective responsibility and urged the community to assist the police by providing timely information to aid crime prevention and drug eradication efforts.
Dr. John Martin Senesi, Director of Operations, highlighted the critical need for community policing engagements to effectively tackle substance abuse. The Director of Gender and Community Affairs echoed the call for widespread community participation to combat the drug menace.
In his keynote address, IGP William Fayia Sellu commended the Kissy community for their ongoing efforts to fight crime and substance abuse. He described Kush as a highly potent form of synthetic marijuana that poses severe health risks, including addiction, mental health issues, and even death. The IGP emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including police raids and community awareness programs, and warned students about the dangers of drugs such as Kush and Tramadol.
The event also featured performances by Leeman, the police artist, and other performers who reinforced the anti-drug message through their acts, stressing the importance of eradicating Kush and other illicit substances from society.
The success of this campaign highlights the vital role of continued education, community involvement, and supportive services in the fight against drug abuse. With persistent efforts, the hope remains that the scourge of Kush can be eliminated, paving the way for a safer and healthier future for all in Sierra Leone.
