Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-02-26 09:39:24
The recent tragic death of a young boy in The Gambia due to a Kush overdose has sparked concerns over the rising rates of addiction among youths. Reports from a Gambian media outlet highlighted the dangers of Kush in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone and Liberia, where the drug has claimed the lives of many and hospitalized hundreds. Now, with Kush being trafficked into The Gambia, authorities are being urged to take action.
Kush, a deadly substance, is a mixture of cannabis, fentanyl, tramadol, formaldehyde, and even ground-up human bones. This concoction is created by local criminal gangs, with the drugs being sourced internationally through the Internet and digital communications. The drug is causing havoc in the region, with young men aged 18 to 25 being the primary users. Kush has been linked to incidents where individuals fall asleep while walking, leading to accidents such as banging their heads against hard surfaces or walking into moving traffic.
The use of cannabis, which is an essential element of Kush, is widespread in The Gambia despite being illegal. Research shows that cannabis has both short-term and long-term health effects, including altered senses, changes in mood, impaired memory and thinking, hallucinations, and psychosis. Fentanyl, another component of Kush, is a synthetic opioid that is extremely potent and addictive, causing effects such as extreme happiness, drowsiness, and problems breathing.
Tramadol, a strong pain medication, is used to treat severe pain but can also be abused. When used in large doses, it can lead to addiction and other health issues. The mixture of these chemicals, along with human bones, create the deadly Kush that is wreaking havoc in the region.
Islamic teachings prohibit the consumption of intoxicants, including Kush. The Qur’an clearly states that all substances that alter the mind and lead to immoral behavior are forbidden. The use of intoxicants is seen as harmful to physical and spiritual well-being, leading individuals away from Allah and His teachings.
The founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, emphasized the dangers of intoxicants, urging people to abstain from all forms of addictive substances. He highlighted the destructive nature of drugs like alcohol, opium, and marijuana, warning against the detrimental effects they have on individuals and society as a whole.
In conclusion, the use of drugs, including Kush, poses serious risks to individuals’ health and well-being. It is essential for governments and communities to take proactive measures to combat the spread of these substances and educate individuals on the dangers of addiction. By following Islamic teachings and promoting a healthy and sober lifestyle, we can work towards a society free from the harms of intoxicants.
Read the original article on The Standard
