By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Osman Kamara of Regent Road, Lumley, is in police custody following a targeted drug operation carried out by officers from the Adonkia Police Station on Tuesday evening. Kamara was apprehended with a small rolling suitcase containing suspected narcotics and drug-related paraphernalia, in what authorities describe as a major step forward in their crackdown on illegal drug activity.
The arrest came during a carefully planned raid, which led to the discovery of several items believed to be linked to the production and distribution of the synthetic drug known locally as KUSH. According to police reports, three white plastic bags filled with leafy substances suspected to be KUSH were found in Kamara’s possession. In addition, a white rubber container containing an unidentified liquid, suspected to be a chemical component used in KUSH processing, was retrieved.
Other items seized from the suspect include a pair of red rubber gloves, an old electronic scale, three small cups labelled “synthetic food colour,” a white bottle with an unknown liquid, adhesive tape, and three face masks. The materials suggest that Kamara may have been involved not only in the possession but possibly the preparation or manufacturing of synthetic drugs.
The operation reflects the ongoing efforts by the Sierra Leone Police to root out drug trafficking and related criminal activities in the Western Area. Regional Police Commander for Freetown West, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Sylvester M. N. Koroma, has been at the forefront of such operations, demonstrating a strong commitment to law enforcement and public safety.
Tuesday’s raid is the latest in a series of successful anti-drug operations under AIG Koroma’s leadership. Previous operations in Taylor Street and Tokeh have resulted in the confiscation of illegal substances and the dismantling of makeshift drug laboratories. The targeted crackdowns have earned the trust of local community people, who continue to support police efforts to rid neighborhoods of harmful narcotics.
Speaking on the recent arrest, AIG Koroma reaffirmed the police’s determination to combat drug-related crimes across the Freetown West region. “We remain focused and committed to protecting our communities from the dangers posed by synthetic drugs such as KUSH. Our strategy is rooted in intelligence-led policing and community collaboration,” he said.
A statement has been obtained from the suspect, and all seized items are currently being held as evidence pending further forensic examination and legal proceedings. The investigation is ongoing, and the police have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests as they trace the supply network and potential accomplices.
This operation comes at a time when the country is witnessing growing concern over the proliferation of synthetic drugs, particularly among the youth. The Sierra Leone Police, backed by regional and national authorities, continue to emphasize their zero-tolerance approach to drug-related crime.
Residents have been urged to report any suspicious activity and support ongoing police efforts to maintain law and order.
