By: Isatou Sarr
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) has arrested 31 people in nationwide operations targeting the trafficking, possession and abuse of cannabis and other illicit substances.
In a statement signed by Dawda Sanyang, Public Relations Officer of DLEAG, the agency said the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to combat drug-related activities across the country.
The suspects include 29 Gambians, one Sierra Leonean and one Senegalese national, the statement said.
DLEAG adds that 30 of those arrested are male, while one is female. The suspects also include an alleged child offender.
The agency said the operations resulted in 11 arrests in the Kanifing Municipality, 16 in the West Coast Region, two in the North Bank Region, one in Banjul and one in the Upper River Region.
According to DLEAG, the suspects were allegedly found in possession of various suspected illicit substances, including cannabis sativa, cannabis ruderalis (skunk), kush, cannabis resin (hashish), ecstasy pills and crystal methamphetamine.
Among those arrested was a 35-year-old resident of Bitta Village who was allegedly found with 35 bundles of suspected cannabis sativa concealed in bags of rice on 21 June 2026.
The agency also reported the arrest of a 23-year-old resident of Brikama Sanchaba at Toubakuta Forest on 2 July, allegedly in possession of four bundles of suspected cannabis sativa.
Other arrests were recorded at locations including Bullock checkpoint, Barra Ferry Terminal, Banjul beach, Bafuloto and several communities within the Greater Banjul Area.
DLEAG said all suspects remained in custody as investigations continued.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against drug trafficking and abuse, while calling on communities to support efforts aimed at reducing the impact of illicit drugs in The Gambia.