By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has intensified its efforts to curb irregular migration, continuing interceptions along the Barra–Jinack sea crossing point.
On January 10, 2026, officers from the Immigration Intelligence Unit, during a routine patrol in the area, intercepted three young females aged 17, 18, and 19. The individuals were found loitering along the seaside with backpacks and were subsequently escorted to the Immigration Office for screening, according to the department.
“The suspects were found loitering along the seaside with backpacks and were conveyed to the Immigration Office for screening,” the GID stated.
GID noted that these individuals were confirmed to be natives of Tanji and Jabang and have also admitted their intention to embark on irregular migration. The department added that further inquiries revealed that the journey was facilitated by a Senegalese national residing in Tanji.
Furthermore, GID said its Upper North Bank Region (NBR) Patrol Team later conducted coastal coverage at identified boat landing sites, including Ballingho Riverside, Ndanka Riverside, and Bereto (New Bridge) Riverside.
“At Bereto, community sensitization was conducted with local fishermen, and contact numbers were exchanged to strengthen information sharing. The areas covered were calm, with no unusual activity recorded,” GID stated.
The Gambia Immigration Department reiterated its commitment to its zero-departure strategy, aimed at safeguarding lives and strengthening national border security.
Meanwhile, as part of its nationwide crackdown on irregular migration departures, the Joint Security Task Force in the North Bank Region—comprising GID, the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), the Gambia Police Force (GPF), the State Intelligence Services (SIS), and other partner agencies—held a community engagement forum with residents of Jinack Kajata.
According to GID, the high-level security engagement underscores the vital role communities play in supporting law enforcement efforts and combating migrant smuggling. The forum sought to address prevailing security challenges, build community resilience, and enhance public understanding of evolving migration trends that continue to threaten the lives and livelihoods of local residents.
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