In a recent development in Moriba Town, Emperi Chiefdom, Bonthe District, the local youth, led by Youth Leader Salia Kamanda, has voiced their dissatisfaction with the actions of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) concerning the fight against substance abuse.

According to Kamanda and his team, they apprehended Lahai Ellie Aias LA along Gbangbantoke road, only for the SLP to release him without consulting them or providing any explanation. The suspect, reportedly in possession of 36 wraps of Kush and a significant amount of cash totaling NLE 13,220, has since been seen freely roaming the community, boasting about his perceived immunity.

The incident unfolded when Kamanda and his peers stumbled upon individuals lined up to purchase Kush along Gbangbantoke road during a routine tour of a nearby farm. Upon approaching the scene, they were met with hostility, with the sellers resorting to pelting stones. Undeterred, Kamanda sought additional support from fellow youths, leading to the apprehension of the suspect who attempted to evade capture by climbing into the ceiling of a nearby building. With the intervention of the police, the suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

However, the frustration of Kamanda and his team stems from the subsequent release of the suspect without any communication or update from the authorities. Despite handing over the suspect to the police and expecting due process, they were left uninformed about the outcome of the case, leaving them feeling vulnerable and unprotected.

Expressing their dismay, Kamanda highlighted the lack of clarity regarding the legal framework surrounding substance abuse and the perceived impunity enjoyed by offenders. He lamented the release of nine other individuals previously apprehended by the youth, raising concerns about the efficacy of law enforcement in addressing the issue.

In an attempt to seek clarification, the youth approached the police with photographic evidence of the released suspect, only to be redirected to the magistrate responsible for the decision.

In light of these challenges, Kamanda urged the central government to intervene and address the situation urgently, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection and accountability in the fight against substance abuse.

As the community grapples with these issues, it underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between law enforcement, government agencies, and local communities to tackle the scourge of substance abuse effectively.