In a decisive move against the rampant drug trade plaguing the Kanikay slum community in the East-end of Freetown, a Joint Operations Team comprising General Duties and Operations Support Division (OSD) personnel of the Harbour Police Division launched a series of raids. The community, known for its association with criminal activities, drug abuse, and illicit drug trade, witnessed a significant crackdown as dozens of ghettos, serving as hubs for drug abuse and organized crime, were demolished by the police.
The raids were prompted by growing concerns over the misuse of the deadly Kush drug and its severe health implications for users. Prior to the operations, CSP Mr. Emmanuel Kpulun, the Local Unit Commander of the Harbour Police Division, emphasized the importance of professionalism and firmness in combating illicit drugs, particularly Kush. “Let us do this for the good of our country,” he urged his Operations Team.
ASP Mr. Mohamed Mansaray, Officer Commanding the OSD, cautioned personnel to remain vigilant during the raids, warning against overreliance on the friendliness of the communities being targeted, as situations could escalate unexpectedly.
Led by Inspector Alpha Umaru Jalloh, the demolition of numerous ghettos ensued, met with applause from members of the Kanikay community. Residents expressed gratitude to the Harbour Police for taking action against the longstanding menace of Kush, which had ravaged the community for years. Komrabai Kamara, a local boat carpenter, voiced support for the raids, urging the police to sustain their efforts.
Sento Sesay, a staff member at Holland Shipping Company in Kanikay, appealed for the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in the importation, distribution, and sale of Kush. With tears streaming down her face, she lamented the devastating impact of the drug on the community’s youth.
During the raids, several premises suspected of harboring drug lords, including the residence of Yusif Abu Sesay, also known as DJ Skinny, were searched. Quantities of drugs believed to be Kush were seized by the Operations Team for further investigation and treatment as exhibits.
As the four-hour operation concluded, the police urged the public to provide credible information that could assist in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting those involved in the Kush trade, signaling their commitment to continuing efforts to eradicate drug-related crime in the area.
