By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
In response to a series of disturbing incidents involving the desecration of graves and theft from cemeteries, the Freetown City Council (FCC) has taken decisive action to address the issue. In a public notice dated March 5th, 2024, the Office of the Chief Administrator announced stringent measures aimed at curbing these heinous crimes.
Effective immediately, access to all cemeteries within Freetown will be terminated at 7:00pm daily. The FCC expressed grave concern over the violation of the peaceful rest of departed individuals, citing instances of vaults being opened, metals and other items stolen from graves, and even the tampering with human remains.
The FCC has collaborated with the Inspector General of Police to deploy armed personnel to patrol cemeteries and enforce the new restrictions. Perpetrators of these reprehensible acts have been warned to cease their activities immediately, with the Council emphasizing the sanctity of allowing the deceased to rest in peace.
Residents residing near cemetery perimeters have been urged to remain vigilant, especially during night hours, and report any suspicious activity to the Sierra Leone police authorities. The FCC is calling for the cooperation of all Freetonians in tackling this issue, highlighting the importance of paying property rates, business licenses, and local taxes to fund initiatives such as the construction of cemetery walls and the reinstallation of missing gates.
In an effort to prevent further desecrations, the FCC has announced plans to erect cemetery walls and reinstall missing gates. However, these initiatives require funding, prompting the Council to appeal to residents for financial support.
The FCC’s swift and decisive action underscores its commitment to maintaining the dignity and sanctity of Freetown’s cemeteries. With the deployment of armed police and strict access restrictions, the Council aims to put an end to the disturbing trend of cemetery desecrations and ensure that the final resting places of the departed are respected.
