Several Arrested After Drug Lab Uncovered at Secondary School in Freetown

On Wednesday November 20, 2024, at approximately 11:00 AM, the administration of Baptist Secondary School in Allentown, Freetown, reported an alarming incident to the Temne Town Police Post.

Over 20 students at the school had fallen ill due to exposure to toxic and harmful substances in the air. The school administration swiftly responded, transporting the affected students to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention.

Upon receiving the report, the Temne Town Police coordinated with local authorities for a rapid response. Senior police officers, including AIG Francis Brima Mengai, Regional Commander for Freetown East, L.U.C. Kissy Division’s Sao Vandy, Operations Officer Mr. Andrew (Operations Officer for Transnational Organized Crime Unit), and other reinforcements, arrived at the scene to conduct a thorough investigation and search.

The principal, vice principals, and faculty members of the school were present during the search operation, which led to the discovery of a sophisticated drug manufacturing facility. Police identified multiple illegal substances and materials hidden on the premises.

Among the items seized were:

Large quantities of shredded leaves suspected to be Kush, a form of marijuana.

Ten plastic bags filled with shredded leaves, suspected to be Kush.

Nine gallons containing a brown liquid suspected to be ethanol.

Seven machines of various specifications believed to be used in the production of Kush.

Twelve gallons of a colorless liquid suspected to be acetone.

A plastic bag containing a waterish substance believed to be tramadol hydrochloride.

Eight small liters containing substances thought to be Lufthansa cargo (a type of drug).

In addition to the drugs, police discovered significant sums of money in several bags, suitcases, and plastic bags. The cash, believed to be tied to illegal activities, was in the possession of two suspects: Zainab Kamara and Momoh Andrew Jah. Both suspects were questioned about the source and ownership of the money. Zainab Kamara claimed she was involved in business in China, while Andrew Jah admitted to being involved in drug trafficking.

The search also revealed that the metal gate leading to the clandestine laboratory had been breached, suggesting the operation was conducted covertly. Despite the discovery of the illicit drugs and equipment, no other damage was reported on the school premises.

Following the search, all seized materials, including the vehicles associated with the suspects, were transported to the Hastings Police Station for further investigation and verification.

The authorities have launched a full investigation into the criminal operation, with the seized substances and cash set to be analyzed for verification. The suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues.

This incident highlights a growing concern over the spread of illegal drug manufacturing and distribution in the region, with law enforcement agencies vowing to take swift action to dismantle such operations and ensure the safety of the community.