Kambia, Sierra Leone – Traditional medicine men conducted a public “gbom sweh” curse ritual at Kambia Central Park after the theft of two electricity transformers by unknown individuals.
The powerful invocation, a deeply rooted Sierra Leonean tradition used to deter serious crimes, was directed by the Paramount Chief. A truckload of priests performed the ceremony in the northern town, aiming supernatural consequences at the thieves.
This marks Kambia as the latest community resorting to such cultural measures against widespread vandalism of power infrastructure. Nearby Lungi, Port Loko, has faced similar transformer thefts, underscoring regional challenges with electricity theft that cause prolonged blackouts.
“Gbom sweh,” previously invoked in places like Bonthe District against ritual killings, reflects growing frustration over crimes disrupting essential services. Residents hope the ritual will protect infrastructure and restore reliable power.
Authorities continue investigations, but community leaders emphasize the need for stronger security amid ongoing vandalism nationwide.
