Sierra Leone’s kush crisis has exposed a deeper rot plus ; a political and moral collapse fueled by greed at the top.
While the government proclaims a “war on drugs,” the real traffickers continue to operate with protection from those entrusted to stop them.
Kush is a toxic blend of synthetic cannabinoids, opioids and imported chemicals ; and floods the country because its ingredients enter freely through the ports, quays and coastal waters guarded by customs, police, the military and the Office of National Security (ONS).
These same institutions are accused of shielding the importers, many of whom are relatives and business partners of senior officials.
Investigations have already linked European cocaine cartels, including the network of Jos Leijdekkers (“Bolle Jos”), to Sierra Leone’s shores. Shipments are quietly offloaded through state-controlled channels, confirming that the “fight against drugs” is largely a performance and while the profits flow upward.
But the corruption doesn’t end with the ruling party. Some opposition politicians, including figures within the APC, are also reported to be benefiting from this trade.
As 2028 approaches, drug importers and financiers are said to be channeling cocaine and kush money into presidential campaigns, ensuring that whichever party wins, the cartel survives.
It’s a bipartisan betrayal ; that is , one that trades national stability for political continuity and personal enrichment.
While the poor die in ghettos and families are torn apart by addiction, the political and security elite grow richer .
Yes, they building new mansions and expanding influence.
The young perish; the powerful profit. That is the real face of Sierra Leone’s “drug war.”
Yet those involved should remember this: the international community knows.
Western intelligence and diplomatic missions are tracking every shipment, every account, and every alliance.
When the reckoning comes, no party banner will shield the guilty. No one expected the Special Court of Sierra Leone after the war .
Even the Kamajors who claimed they fought on the side of government and protected civilians were jailed by Court supported by the international community.
So, these government officials and their allies should know that some day soon they will account for these crimes and inhumane atrocities in international courts and other domestic courts in foreign countries.
By Joe Turay
