By: Isatou Sarr
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG) recently went out and about arresting dozens of suspects, including a 16-year-old Senegalese national.
The agency was in a full swing during a nationwide anti-drug operation that uncovered large quantities of prohibited substances.
According to a DLEAG statement, the minor, identified as a resident of Touba Daru Manan, was apprehended at the Kalagi checkpoint on April 8, 2026, at around 10:40 GMT. He was found in possession of 1,654 ecstasy pills and two wraps of suspected crystal meth, concealed inside a flat-screen television.
The arrests were part of a broader operation conducted between mid-March and early April, targeting suspected drug trafficking and distribution activities across several regions.
DLEAG reported multiple arrests involving varying quantities of suspected cannabis sativa, kush, crack cocaine, ecstasy, and other controlled substances. Among the notable arrests: Suwaibou Colley, 27, was detained in Farato on March 19, 2026, with 14 bundles and one parcel of suspected cannabis sativa, along with cannabis resin hidden in rice bags.
In another case, Mustapha Corr, 32, and Fancy Saho were arrested on April 2, 2026, with 16 stones of suspected crack cocaine concealed in a plastic bag.
Several other arrests were carried out in Brikama, Tanji, Bakau, Barra, and Banjul, where suspected drugs were reportedly hidden in plastic bags, socks, food containers, and travelling bags. One suspect was apprehended at Mile II Central Prison while allegedly attempting to smuggle drugs concealed in food items.
DLEAG confirmed that some of the detainees were foreign nationals, including Senegalese and Nigerian citizens, highlighting a cross-border dimension to the investigations. Operations focused on strategic points such as the Kalagi checkpoint, Barra Ferry Terminal, and Brikama Durumakolong to intercept illegal drug movements.
DLEAG Public Relations Officer Dawda Sanyang said all suspects remained in custody while investigations continued. The agency reiterated its commitment to combating drug trafficking and called on the public to support its efforts by reporting suspicious activities
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