Freetown, October 30, 2025 — The Government of Sierra Leone, through its National Taskforce on Drug and Substance Abuse, on Thursday conducted a large-scale raid across the communities of Funkia, Kingtom Bomeh, and Kanikay as part of ongoing efforts to combat the country’s growing kush crisis.
The coordinated operation, involving multiple ministries and government agencies, was led by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) under the leadership of Chief Andrew J. Kaikai. It forms part of the government’s intensified campaign to tackle drug abuse, which has severely affected young people and destabilized several communities nationwide.
Upon arrival in Funkia, Taskforce members encountered an unexpected clash between groups of addicted youths and local drug dealers.
The confrontation quickly escalated, but soon transformed into a spontaneous protest as residents joined in, chanting “We nor want kush!” and “Say no to kush!” — a sign of growing community resistance against drug abuse.
Dozens of individuals suffering from severe addiction and medical complications were rescued from the affected areas. Many showed advanced symptoms of kush-related illness, including leg sores and cases of gangrene.
The victims were transferred to the Kissy Psychiatric Hospital for emergency treatment and rehabilitation.
Professor Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and National Coordinator of Drug and Substance Abuse, said the operation was designed not only to curb drug use but also to prioritize humane medical care.
He noted that the health response was focused on providing detoxification, wound management, and psychological counselling for patients.
The situation in Funkia was later brought under control through the leadership of Colonel B. N. Gorgra, a senior officer from the Law Enforcement Pillar. His team helped de-escalate tensions and engaged community members in dialogue.
“This is not just a fight against drugs,” Colonel Gorgra said. “It’s a fight for our youth, our families, and the soul of our communities. Together, we must remove kush from our streets and restore hope and dignity to those affected.”
At the Kissy Psychiatric Hospital — formerly known as the Kissy Mental Hospital — officials confirmed that its 40-bed capacity has been completely filled. Plans are underway to expand bed space to meet the rising demand for rehabilitation services.
Community leaders in Kingtom Bomeh and Kanikay hailed the operation as a timely intervention. “These people needed help, not punishment,” one local elder told reporters.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the root causes of addiction, including poverty, unemployment, and trauma, and called for collective community action in supporting recovery and reintegration.
As Sierra Leone’s nationwide anti-drug campaign gains momentum, the events in Funkia have become a symbol of hope — reflecting the determination of ordinary citizens, law enforcement, and health professionals to reclaim their communities from the devastating grip of kush.
