Sierra Leone declares national emergency to combat deadly ‘Zombie’ drug crisis
NEW DELHI: A drug made from human bones is causing chaos in Sierra Leone, with addicts resorting to grave robbery for their fix. Named ‘Kush’, the narcotic triggers a hypnotic high that lasts for hours, leading to a surge in grave desecration. Sierra Leone has declared a national emergency to combat this alarming trend, according to a report from BBC.
President Julius Maada Bio expressed concern over the escalating fatalities linked to the drug, announcing the formation of a task force to tackle the crisis.
“Our country is currently faced with an existential threat due to the ravaging impact of drugs and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug Kush,” Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio said.
The country’s sole drug rehabilitation center in Freetown is overwhelmed, and described as more of a holding facility due to limited resources.
Dr Abdul Jalloh, from the Sierra Leone psychiatric hospital, praised the emergency declaration as a crucial step in addressing drug abuse.
The government aims to establish care centres across districts staffed by professionals to aid those battling addiction. Efforts are underway to dismantle the drug supply chain through investigations and arrests.
Reports suggest a sharp rise in hospital admissions related to ‘kush’, with a staggering 4,000% increase in cases between 2020 and 2023. While the exact death toll remains unknown, a local doctor revealed the drug’s deadly impact, citing numerous deaths from organ failure.
The situation has led to grave concern as the country grapples with the devastating effects of substance abuse. Police in Freetown are vigilant, guarding cemeteries to prevent further grave disturbances in the pursuit of the dangerous ‘Zombie’ drug production.
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