Maada Bio 'washes his hands' and blames others for persistent drug epidemic in Sierra Leone




Today marks a significant milestone: the 10th anniversary of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. While we take a moment to recognize this important day, our focus shifts to a troubling situation in Freetown.


Recent reports from the Freetown City Council (FCC) highlight a disturbing rise in the number of deceased individuals found on the streets, especially among the youth.


This tragic increase in fatalities has been mainly linked to the emerging Kush pandemic, raising urgent public health concerns.


Since January 2025, the FCC has reported a staggering total of 253 bodies collected, putting immense pressure on the city's mortuary facilities and burial operations.

The situation at the Connaught Hospital mortuary has become increasingly difficult, with a growing number of unclaimed and unidentified bodies. Similar issues have arisen in other regions, complicating efforts to accommodate additional remains.


There have been instances where caretakers, overwhelmed by the number of bodies, directed individuals to report discoveries to law enforcement, citing capacity limits and confusion over responsibilities.

In response to this urgent crisis, the Freetown City Council is urging the government to immediately investigate the surge in deaths and to develop a clear response plan. This isn’t just about statistics; it reflects a deep concern for the health and safety of our communities.


Have you seen the heartbreaking images and videos of Sierra Leoneans suffering from painful sores on their swollen hands and feet?


The U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse states that, in addition to risk for overdose, repeated xylazine use is associated with skin wounds, such as open sores (ulcers) and abscesses.


Ruben Rubadoveski observed this alarming trend in August 2023 as he saw individuals moving through the busy streets of Freetown, resembling specters of despair.

It's a daily reality for the city council to collect bodies of young men and women who have tragically fallen victim to the toxic, addictive substance known as Kush, some of whom were military and police officers, exploited and sent out to intimidate political opponents leading up to the presidential elections on June 23, 2023.


After the elections, many were left helpless, suffering from severe health issues due to prolonged exposure to harmful drugs, causing damage to their livers and kidneys, yet lacking medical care and basic sustenance.

The elections, widely regarded as fraudulent by both local and international observers, have cast a shadow over Sierra Leone’s future.


It’s essential to shed light on these critical issues and advocate for the care and justice these individuals deserve. 

The impact on people from heroin, fentanyl, synthetic marijuana, and xylazine—the animal tranquilizer that causes sores and open wounds in street drug users.









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