By Isatou Sarr
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) has arrested 48 suspects in a nationwide anti-narcotics operation, seizing large quantities of cannabis, hashish, kush, ecstasy, cocaine, and crack cocaine, authorities revealed Wednesday.
The arrests, carried out between January 12 and January 26, followed coordinated raids, checkpoint interceptions, and night operations across multiple communities, including Gunjur, Wellingara, Bakau, Brikama, Farafenni, Serrekunda, Kololi, and Barra.
According to sources, among the notable seizures, 44-year-old Musa Jarra of Gunjur was found with 13 parcels, 54 wraps of suspected cannabis sativa, and 17 wraps of suspected cannabis resin. In a separate case, 46-year-old Modou Lamin Jobarteh of Kololi was apprehended with 363 ecstasy pills, along with quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine — one of the largest synthetic drug recoveries recorded during the operation.
Several suspects were intercepted at key entry and transit points. Senegalese national Ousman Njie was arrested at the Barra-Ginack crossing with six bundles of suspected cannabis, while others were detained at Bullock and Mandinaba checkpoints.
The crackdown also targeted nightlife areas, with arrests at entertainment venues including Corrugate Bar, City Pop, and 50-50 Night Club.
DLEAG reported recovering dozens of parcels, bundles, wraps, stones, and pills hidden in nylon bags, plastic sachets, cement paper, socks, purses, and travel bags. The seized substances included cannabis sativa, cannabis resin (hashish), cannabis ruderalis (skunk), kush, and ecstasy.
Most of those arrested are young adults, aged 18 to 48, including Gambian nationals and a few Senegalese residents.
The agency said the operations formed part of ongoing efforts to disrupt drug supply networks and limit the circulation of prohibited substances in the country. All suspects remain under investigation and are expected to face charges under Gambia’s drug control laws.