‘Zombie’ drug made from human bones is pushing addicts to dig up graves

A man sleeps whilst standing inside a drug den at the Kington landfill site in Freetown

Police officers are now stationed at cemeteries in Freetown, Sierra Leone, as more individuals turn to the drug known as Kush. This substance, made from a mix of harmful substances, notably includes ground-up human bone as one of its main ingredients. Human remains contain traces of sulfur, which is believed to enhance the effects of drugs.

Kush emerged in the country approximately six years ago and induces a hypnotic high that can last for hours. One former user, Abu Bakhar, aged 25, shared how the drug derailed his aspirations for a music career, turning him into what he described as a "zombie." He lamented, "Because of drugs, I did not concentrate on studies. Because of drugs, I did not concentrate on writing. Because of drugs, I did not concentrate on anything."

Kush is a mix of various chemicals and plants that mimic the natural properties found in cannabis

Sadly, Abu is now homeless, residing on a landfill site along with thousands of others affected by drug abuse. Sierra Leone's President Bio has acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating, "Our country is currently faced with an existential threat due to the ravaging impact of drugs and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug Kush."

Medical professionals in Freetown have witnessed the dire consequences of Kush use, with hundreds of young men succumbing to organ failure caused by the drug. Admissions to the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital linked to Kush-related illnesses soared by 4,000% between 2020 and 2023.

A man sleeps inside a drug den at the Kington landfill site

In response to this crisis, President Bio has established a task force aimed at eradicating the drug. This initiative includes setting up centers in every district staffed with trained professionals to offer care and support to individuals struggling with drug addiction. Dr. Abdul Jalloh, the head of the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital, praised this emergency declaration as a crucial step in addressing drug abuse.

Another individual familiar with the drug's effects expressed concern, describing Kush as transporting users to an altered state where they lose touch with themselves. They likened its impact to something demonic, highlighting the tragedy of individuals continuing to use it despite witnessing the deaths of friends and acquaintances due to its harmful effects.