MUNICIPAL authorities in Sierra Leone’s capital have announced plans to deploy armed police personnel to safeguard cemeteries overnight following a series of grave robberies involving the theft of human bones.
The recent surge in thefts, believed to be linked to the production of a potent drug called ‘kush,’ has prompted the Freetown City Council to take decisive action. A council official, speaking anonymously to AFP, revealed that the stolen bones are suspected to be used in the production of this synthetic drug, which mimics the effects of cannabis.
While the exact composition of ‘kush’ remains unclear, rumours circulating in local media suggest that it may contain crushed human bones. However, this claim has yet to be scientifically validated.
Expressing outrage over the violation of the deceased’s resting places, the Freetown City Council issued a stern statement condemning the thefts. ‘With immediate effect, access to or through any cemetery must be terminated at 7:00 pm daily,’ the council declared, announcing stringent measures to curb further incidents.
In addition to restricting access to cemeteries, the council revealed plans to station armed police personnel at these locations to enforce the new regulations and take punitive action against violators. However, details regarding the deployment timeline and the number of affected cemeteries remain unclear, according to police sources.
Amidst the heightened security measures, the council has urged residents living near graveyards to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities by reporting any suspicious activities or individuals.
The move comes as authorities grapple with the disturbing trend of grave robberies, which pose not only a threat to public safety but also desecrate the sanctity of burial grounds in the country.
(with AFP)