By: Problyn J. Alpha
Residents of Koidu City, Kono District, were filled with relief on Tuesday, October 11, 2025, after a team of police officers from the Tankoro Police Divisional Headquarters arrested the Chief Executive Officer of Black Gate, a notorious kush lord in Koidu. The operation, led by the Division’s Operations Commander, Mr. Sesay, and supported by officers from the OSD (Operational Support Division), has been hailed as a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug abuse in the district and the country.
The arrest of the CEO, widely regarded as one of the biggest kush dealers in Koidu and the larger Kono District, comes after months of growing concerns from residents about the increasing prevalence of kush-related activities. The Koidu community had long been calling for stronger action against the surge in drug trafficking and abuse, with numerous appeals made to the Sierra Leone Police and youth-led organizations like the Central Youth Organization (CYO) to intervene.
Some residents, speaking to our correspondent, attributed the arrest to the relentless efforts and continuous raids by the Sierra Leone Police, which have brought new hope to the people of Koidu, who have long lived under the threat of drug-related violence and criminal gangs.
The arrest of the CEO, widely regarded as one of the biggest kush dealers in Koidu and the larger Kono District, comes after months of growing concerns from local residents about the increasing prevalence of kush-related activities. The Koidu community had long been calling for stronger action against the surge in drug trafficking and abuse, with numerous appeals made to the Sierra Leone Police and youth-led organizations like the Central Youth Organization (CYO) to intervene.
Some residents, speaking to our correspondent, attributed the arrest to the relentless efforts and continuous raids by the Sierra Leone Police, which have brought new hope to the people of Koidu, who have long lived under the threat of drug-related violence and criminal gangs.
The arrest is seen as a pivotal step toward reclaiming Koidu City from the grip of kush and restoring safety and peace to the community. Members of the Central Youth Organization (CYO), who have been actively supporting the security sector in curbing drug abuse in Kono District, praised the Tankoro Police Divisional Headquarters for their unwavering commitment to fighting the drug menace.
CYO has also assured the public of its continued partnership with the security forces to combat drug abuse in Kono District and across Sierra Leone. The organization reaffirmed its dedication to working alongside law enforcement agencies to ensure a safer, drug-free community.
This arrest marks a significant turning point in the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse, signaling the potential for lasting change in Kono District’s fight against drug-related issues.