By Dawda M. Jallow
One Ebrima Jallow was on Monday arraigned before the Kanifing Magistrates’ Court on a charge of alleged possession of cannabis, a prohibited substance under Gambian law.
The case, presided over by Magistrate Awa Manneh, relates to an incident prosecutors say occurred on 23 December 2025 in Old Jeshwang, within the Kanifing Municipality.
According to the prosecution, Jallow was allegedly found in possession of 28 grams of cannabis sativa, an offence contrary to Section 35(1)(a) of the Drug Control Act, 2003.
The charge was read to the accused by Superintendent M.S. Camara of the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG), who represented the state. Jallow, who had no legal representation at the time of arraignment, pleaded not guilty.
“The weed doesn’t belong to me,” he told the court, denying the allegation.
Following the plea, the prosecution applied for an adjournment to allow time to secure witnesses.
Superintendent Camara also informed the court that the state did not oppose bail, noting that the offence is bailable under Gambian law.
In her ruling, Magistrate Manneh granted bail to the accused in the sum of D2,000 with one Gambian surety. The surety is required to deposit a valid national identity card or passport with the court registrar and submit an affidavit of means.
The case was adjourned to 9 June 2026 for continuation of the hearing.
