By Isatou Sarr
Police in The Gambia have launched an investigation into the alleged circulation of counterfeit British Pounds Sterling at several Bureau de Change outlets in the Senegambia area, security sources said Saturday.
According to a police report dated 4 January 2026, the probe commenced on 31 December 2025 following complaints from foreign exchange operators who suspected that fake British currency was being presented for exchange.
Preliminary investigations indicate that two individuals, who arrived separately in The Gambia from the United Kingdom in December 2025, were found in possession of British Pounds Sterling, parts of which were allegedly tendered at multiple Bureau de Change outlets along the Senegambia Strip.
Police have so far recovered £6,040, while an outstanding sum of £460 remains unaccounted for. Efforts are continuing to trace the remaining amount, the report said.
At least eight Bureau de Change outlets are reported to have been affected. While some operators were unable to positively identify the suspects, others provided information that assisted investigators in advancing the case.
Statements have been obtained from persons of interest as part of the ongoing inquiry. A third individual was temporarily detained to assist police but was later released after investigations found no evidence linking him to the alleged offence beyond social association.
Police said investigations are continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case, including verification of the authenticity of the recovered currency, accountability for the outstanding amount and adherence to due legal procedures.
The Gambia Police Force has assured the public that the matter is being handled with professionalism and diligence and said updates would be provided as investigations progress.
Authorities have also called on members of the public with relevant information to cooperate with the police to support the ongoing investigation.