By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has announced plans to take firm disciplinary action against three officers who absconded in Italy while attending an official training program. The department also disclosed that it is collaborating with Italian and broader European authorities to locate and facilitate their repatriation.
According to the GID, Assistant Immigration Control Officers Basirou L. Bojang, Lamin Drammeh, and Bambi Jah departed their assigned residence in Italy before completing a two-week training course focused on migration management, border security, and document examination.
The department indicated that the officers’ disappearance appears to have been premeditated and emphasized that their actions do not reflect the values, standards, or expectations of the institution.
In a strongly worded statement, the GID noted that the officers’ conduct undermines the integrity of The Gambia, strains bilateral relations with Italy, and risks damaging the professional reputation of Gambian immigration personnel.
“Their conduct compromises the integrity of The Gambia, strains diplomatic cooperation between The Gambia and Italy, and risks portraying a negative perception of our officers’ professionalism and loyalty. The leadership of the GID condemns these actions in the strongest possible terms,” the statement read.
The department further confirmed that it has formally notified Italian and European authorities of the incident and has requested immediate assistance in tracing and returning the officers. Relevant details, including passport biodata, visa information, and photographs, have been shared with the appropriate agencies.
Reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the GID assured stakeholders and the public that all necessary measures will be pursued to ensure the officers are repatriated and subjected to appropriate disciplinary procedures.
“The GID frowns upon any action that stains the integrity of the nation. We remain firmly committed to maintaining discipline, upholding professional conduct, and strengthening international partnerships and cooperation,” the statement concluded.
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