Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Consortium of Civil Society & Media Alliance on Alcohol & Tobacco (CAAT) has confirmed that the young woman seen in a viral video circulating on social media was under the influence of Ecstasy, a synthetic drug, and not alcohol, as initially claimed.
In a statement issued from its headquarters on Siaka Stevens Street, CAAT condemned what it described as a “malicious attempt” to mislead the public and unfairly tarnish the image of a reputable alcohol company operating in Sierra Leone.
The organization accused unnamed individuals of exploiting the video to damage the company’s reputation and possibly extort its employees.
“Our investigation, supported by credible sources, confirmed that the young lady’s condition was not due to alcohol consumption, but rather the use of Ecstasy,” said CAAT Chairman M.S. Biro.
The Alliance, which advocates for responsible alcohol and tobacco use, launched an independent fact-finding mission after the video sparked widespread public concern.
Their investigation concluded that the alcohol brand featured in the footage may have been misrepresented or used in a staged context. CAAT emphasized that the company in question is compliant with all national regulatory standards.
Other findings from CAAT’s investigation include:
* The woman’s behavior was consistent with Ecstasy intoxication, not alcohol.
* There is no evidence the featured alcohol brand caused or contributed to her condition.
* Attempts may have been made to use the video to blackmail or extort the company.
* Testimonials from regular customers contradict claims made in the viral content.
CAAT called on the public, particularly young people, to exercise personal responsibility when consuming alcohol and to stay away from synthetic drugs like Ecstasy.
The organization also denounced what it sees as an emerging trend of defamation against local investors, warning that such actions could deter economic growth and job creation.
Regulators, CAAT noted, continue to enforce strict standards on licensed alcohol producers, and unfounded accusations risk undermining those enforcement efforts.
As part of its response, CAAT pledged to provide psychosocial counseling for the young woman involved and announced plans to launch a nationwide awareness campaign on drug abuse prevention and responsible alcohol use.
