High Court Sentences Freetown Businessman to 25 Years for Kush Possession

The High Court of Sierra Leone has sentenced a Freetown-based businessman, Ali Kamara, to twenty-five (25) years’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of Kush.

The sentence was handed down by Honourable Justice Khalila Diana Kamara, who presided over the matter and described the offence as a serious violation of Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008.

The court heard that the offence was committed in Freetown, where Kamara, a resident of Culvert, was found in possession of 60.4 grams of Kush. Upon his arraignment before the High Court, the accused admitted to the charge and entered a guilty plea.

During the trial, the Sierra Leone Police presented laboratory evidence confirming the nature of the substance. The analysis revealed that 20 wraps of the seized material tested positive for synthetic cannabinoids, including traces of propane 2-1 and phencyclidine.

In her sentencing remarks, Justice Kamara highlighted the severe social consequences associated with the proliferation of Kush and other illicit drugs in the country.

She noted that offences of this nature pose a significant threat to society, particularly to young people, warning that the impact of drug abuse is capable of undermining the future of the nation.

“The effects are far-reaching, leaving behind a trail of a zombified youthful population too inebriated to take their rightful place in nation building,” Justice Kamara stated, stressing that the judiciary must send a strong and clear message to discourage similar offences.

The court further ordered that the 60.4 grams of Kush be destroyed under supervision, with a certificate of destruction to be filed before the court within seven working days.

Justice Kamara also admonished the convict to reflect on his actions and strive to become a law-abiding and responsible citizen upon completion of his custodial sentence.

The 25-year custodial sentence, according to the court, underscores the High Court’s commitment to enforcing the law, safeguarding public safety, and addressing the growing threat posed by drug abuse in Sierra Leone.