By Makutu Manneh
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG), has arrested nine individuals, including two minors, for allegedly cultivating cannabis sativa at the outskirts of Sawma Kunda village in the Sami District, Central River Region (CRR). The arrests took place on 10 October 2025.
According to DLEAG, the operation was a joint effort involving the agency’s CRR, Basse, and LRR Commands, along with the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) of the Gambia Police Force and the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services (GFRS).The operation began with the arrest of Essa Jawo, 28, from Mbafaf village, who reportedly disclosed information leading to the capture of eight additional suspects. Those arrested were identified as:
- Momodou Camara (60)—Alkalo of Sawma Kunda
- Kaka Jawo (26) – Mbafaf village
- Essa Camara (27) – Sawma Kunda
- Samba Barry (26) – Mbafaf village
- Samba Bah (21) – Sawma Kunda
- Abdoulie Bah (24) – Mbafaf village
- 15-year-old alleged child offender—Sawma Kunda
- 17-year-old alleged child offender—Tabayel village
DLEAG reported that two motorcycles were also recovered from the suspects during the operation. All nine individuals are currently in custody as investigations continue.
In a statement, DLEAG commended the Inspector General of Police, the CRR PIU, and the GFRS Command for their “invaluable support and collaboration” in the successful operation.