By Makutu Manneh
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG), announced that it had arrested 48 individuals in connection with the possession of prohibited drugs over a two-week period in January, including cannabis, ecstasy, and cocaine.
According to a DLEAG press release, the arrests occurred between January 12 and January 26, 2026, across multiple regions of The Gambia, including Banjul, Brikama, Kanifing, Farafenni, and coastal towns such as Gunjur and Kololi. The suspects, who range in age from 18 to 48 and include Gambian and Senegalese nationals, are currently in custody as investigations continue.
“The arrests are part of our ongoing effort to curb the illegal drug trade and safeguard public health and security,” the agency said.
The drugs seized included cannabis sativa, cannabis ruderalis (skunk), cannabis resin (hashish), kush, ecstasy, and crack and powdered cocaine. Quantities varied from individual wraps and pills to larger bundles, often concealed in paper, plastic bags, or personal items such as backpacks and traveling bags.
Among those arrested were Musa Jarra, 44, of Gunjur, found with more than 50 wraps of cannabis sativa and 17 wraps of hashish; Modou Lamin Jobarteh, 46, of Kololi, discovered in possession of 363 ecstasy pills as well as cocaine and crack; and Kabba Njie, 48, of Kotu, apprehended with 21 stones of suspected crack cocaine. Several arrests involved young adults in their early twenties, reflecting the agency’s concern about rising drug-related activity among youth.
The operations spanned public spaces, checkpoints, and nightclubs. Some suspects were apprehended at border crossings, such as the Barra-Ginack checkpoint, highlighting the transnational nature of drug trafficking in the region.
DLEAG emphasized that all suspects are being held while detailed investigations continue, signaling potential additional charges and prosecutions. Authorities also noted that the agency is strengthening its collaboration with regional and international partners to combat organized drug networks.
The arrests represent one of the most extensive drug enforcement operations in recent years, underscoring growing concerns about narcotics in both urban and rural communities.
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