BY: PRECIOUS MIRACLE KARGBO
Authorities in Sierra Leone have uncovered a severe new drug crisis involving the infiltration of highly potent synthetic cannabinoids and opioids into the local drug market. The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) issued a stark warning following an ongoing investigation into these dangerous substances.
President Julius Maada Bio declared a national emergency in April 2024 after the Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse, in collaboration with global partners, conducted initial tests on a drug known as “Kush.” The preliminary results revealed several alarming findings:
- “Kush” contains synthetic cannabinoids, man-made chemicals significantly more potent and harmful than natural cannabis.
- 83% of the samples tested positive for nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids estimated to be 100 times more potent than heroin.
- No traces of fentanyl, another deadly synthetic opioid, were detected.
The crisis extends beyond Sierra Leone, with similar substances reported in Liberia, Guinea, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal, indicating a growing regional problem.
“‘Kush’ is not just a problem in Sierra Leone. It’s also being found in neighboring countries, making it a regional issue that demands urgent attention,” the NPHA stated.
The Task Force is now working with experts for further testing and analysis, while the government has pledged to combat this “Kush crisis” relentlessly. Regular updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
“Stay informed and stay safe,” the NPHA advised, encouraging the public to monitor the preliminary report available online at https://globalinitiative.net/.
This unprecedented synthetic drug epidemic poses a grave threat to public health and safety across West Africa. Authorities are racing to understand the scope of the problem and implement effective strategies to curb the spread of these highly potent and dangerous substances before they wreak further havoc on vulnerable communities.
