A dangerous trend has emerged in Sierra Leone with youths now inhaling Human bones which is turning them to a shadow of themselves.
The weird happenings, Elanza News gathered, has led to the stealing of thousands of bones in different gaves.
Sierra Leone has been facing a harrowing issue that has shocked the nation and the world alike with the introduction of Kush, a means of getting people high.
The theft of human bones from graves and their subsequent inhalation by young people has given rise to a dangerous and alarming drug trend known as “Kush.”
Thousands of bones are being stolen from graves in Sierra Leone, with the sole purpose of inhaling the sulfur contained within them.
The practice, referred to as “Kush,” has gained popularity among young people, turning them into what has been described as “zombies.”
To create this deadly concoction, dry leaves are mixed with a cocktail of chemicals, resulting in a substance that is highly addictive and destructive.
Mixing it with human bones is now the order of the day with local authorities working hard to redeem the situation.
The Kush, when inhaled, the sulfur present in the stolen bones has the potential to induce a heightened state of euphoria.
This direct pathway to the brain makes the effects more potent, leading to a dangerous dependency that can quickly spiral out of control.
Medical experts in Sierra Leone have expressed grave concern over this emerging drug epidemic, warning that it may have far-reaching consequences.
Dr. Jusu Mathia, a renowned psychiatrist, has observed that the drug abuse problem in the country is constantly evolving, transforming young individuals into shadows of their former selves.
“The psychological and physical toll of inhaling these stolen bones is severe, with addiction and cognitive impairment being just the tip of the iceberg,” Mathia said.
In response to the rising number of bone thefts, some youths in the affected communities have taken matters into their own hands.
These individuals guarding the graves, known as “Friends of the Dead,” have formed groups to protect the graves.
Disturbed by the desecration of their loved ones’ resting places, they are determined to defend the sanctity of their cemeteries.
David Deen, a member of the Friends of the Dead, lamented the loss of over 2,000 stolen bones, leaving them with no choice but to take matters into their own hands.
Pundits say their dedication to preserving the dignity of the deceased is commendable, adding that a clear and comprehensive solution is urgently required.
“The issue of bone theft and the subsequent inhalation of sulfur among Sierra Leone’s youth demands immediate attention and action.
“The government, in collaboration with medical professionals, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies, must come together to address this growing drug epidemic,” said Sandy John.
According to him, education and awareness campaigns should be launched to inform both young people and the wider community about the dangers and consequences of engaging in such practices.
He also called for rehabilitation centers and counseling services to provide support and assistance to those struggling with addiction.
“Stricter laws and enforcement mechanisms should be put in place to deter bone theft and punish those involved in the production and distribution of Kush,” Martins Elijah said.
He added that there is the need for cooperation with international organizations and neighboring countries to help in curbing the cross-border trade of these stolen bones.
“The rise of the Kush phenomenon in Sierra Leone, where young people are inhaling stolen bones to achieve a dangerous high, is a distressing issue that requires immediate attention.
“The physical and psychological toll on the youth is alarming, and the potential for a full-blown drug epidemic is looming. It is crucial that all stakeholders come together to combat this growing crisis by implementing comprehensive solutions, raising awareness, and providing the necessary support systems,” another analyst, Caleb Ado said, “ adding that only through collective efforts can Sierra Leone hope to protect its youth and safeguard the sanctity of its graves.
