The Freetown City Council has expressed outrage over what they term as “gross violation of the peaceful rest of our departed compatriots” following reports of grave robbery in the city.
According to the council, there have been instances of vaults being opened, metals and other items stolen from graves, and even the tampering with human remains.
In an official statement released on Thursday, signed by Koma Hassan Kamara, IEC Officer the council strongly condemned these acts and urged the perpetrators to cease their activities immediately.
“The dead must be allowed to rest in peace,” the statement emphasized.
In response to these disturbing incidents, the Freetown City Council has announced new measures aimed at curbing grave robbery.
Effective immediately, access to or through any cemetery will be terminated at 7:00 PM each day. Additionally, armed police personnel will be stationed at cemeteries to enhance security, and punitive measures will be taken against anyone found violating the new regulations.
The council also called upon residents living near cemeteries to be extra vigilant, particularly during nighttime, and to report any suspicious activities to the Sierra Leone Police authorities for further investigation.
