Information Minister Says Police Station Will Be Built in Jinack to Curb Cannabis Farming and Irregular Migration

By Makutu Manneh

The Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services, Ismaila Ceesay, has announced that the government will construct a police station in Niumi Jinack to strengthen security and curb cannabis cultivation and irregular migration from the island.

According to Dr. Ceesay, the planned police post will ensure a permanent law enforcement presence in Jinack, which authorities say has long been associated with cannabis farming and has also served as a departure point for irregular migration.

The minister acknowledged that cannabis cultivation has historically been a source of livelihood for many residents of Jinack. However, he emphasized that the government intends to introduce alternative income-generating opportunities to support affected families. As part of these efforts, the government plans to provide fishing boats and related support to interested villagers to facilitate a transition to fishing and other lawful economic activities.

Speaking during his weekly appearance on Coffee Time With Peter Gomez, Dr. Ceesay also disclosed that the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) will soon roll out an electrification programme for Jinack Island. He said access to electricity will enhance social services, stimulate trade, and create new business opportunities for residents.

“So, we are not only enforcing the law by destroying cannabis farms, which is illegal and unlawful, but also a danger to security,” he stated. “We are also going to support them to diversify livelihoods by providing fishing boats and other support, as well, but also making sure that we are going to electrify the whole of Jinack.”

Dr. Ceesay further noted that improved electricity supply is expected to open up economic prospects and improve living conditions on the island. He added that law enforcement authorities will intensify community engagement initiatives to encourage residents to embrace government programmes and pursue sustainable alternatives to cannabis cultivation.

The proposed interventions form part of broader government efforts to address security concerns, promote lawful economic activities, and discourage irregular migration from coastal communities.