Gambian Authorities Seize Tens of Thousands of Ecstasy Pills in Nationwide Drug Sweep

By Makutu Manneh

The Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) announced on Monday that it had confiscated 49,000 ecstasy pills along with large quantities of cannabis, cocaine, and other illicit drugs in a nationwide operation conducted between January 29 and February 8, 2026. The crackdown resulted in more than 30 arrests across the country.

Among those detained was 49-year-old Slauoi Habib Hicham, a Moroccan businessman living in Brusubi, who was apprehended on February 6 with 44,400 ecstasy pills and blocks of suspected cannabis resin concealed in a black suitcase. Other high-profile arrests included 20-year-old Nuha Badjie from Tamba Kunda and Alieu Gibba from Siwal, both caught at the outskirts of Sita Nunku with large bundles of suspected cannabis sativa.

Authorities also detained 39-year-old Yaya Kanteh of Farato, found with 5,101 ecstasy pills and cannabis resin, as well as 44-year-old Samba Samura of Garawol and 45-year-old Chikaodi Stephen Orji, a Nigerian national residing on Coastal Road, who were in possession of cannabis and cocaine, respectively. Several minors, aged 15 and 17, were reportedly among those arrested.

“All the suspects are currently in custody while further investigations into their respective matters continue,” DLEAG said in a statement.

The agency emphasized its commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking, calling on the public to continue cooperating with authorities in the fight against illicit substances.