On May 12, 2024, authorities in Kafe Chiefdom, located in the Tonkolili District of Northern Sierra Leone, arrested three individuals suspected of smoking and selling the deadly drug known as kush. The suspects, identified as Kapr Mansaray, Saio Marrah, and Alusine Kamara, were apprehended at a gold mining site called Rogbom.

This arrest is part of a larger effort led by Paramount Chief Dr. Masakma Madibie II to eradicate kush from the chiefdom. Chief Masakma has been proactive in this fight, holding meetings with sub-chiefs, youth leaders, and Mamy Queens to emphasize the seriousness of the issue. He has issued strong warnings against the use and distribution of the drug, threatening legal action against anyone found in violation of the chiefdom's anti-drug policies.

To complement the chief’s initiatives, local authorities conducted raids on various mining sites within the chiefdom. During one such raid, the three men were caught smoking kush. Following their arrest, Chief Masakma ordered that they be handed over to the Sierra Leone Police for further investigation and potential prosecution. The suspects were subsequently detained at the Magburaka Police Station, where they are awaiting legal proceedings.

Kush, a highly dangerous drug, has had a devastating impact on the youth of Sierra Leone since it emerged a few years ago. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Chief Masakma has introduced by-laws with strict penalties for those caught dealing in the drug. Recent enforcement of these laws has led to several kush dealers being forced to leave the chiefdom or face prosecution.

The arrest of Mansaray, Marrah, and Kamara underscores Chief Masakma's unwavering commitment to making Kafe Chiefdom a kush-free zone. To ensure that justice is served, the Chief has established a committee to monitor the ongoing investigation and prosecution of the suspects. He has vowed to make Kafe Chiefdom one of the most inhospitable places for kush dealers and users.

The Magburaka Police Station is currently investigating the case, and the community remains hopeful that these efforts will significantly reduce the prevalence of kush in the region.