The Gambia Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) officers have arrested six people in connection with the seizure of 734 blocks of suspected cocaine.

The suspects are Omar Fofana, a Gambian and five Sierra Leoneans namely Junior Vandy, Jeremia Thomas, Alex Thomas, Alagie Suwareh and Joy Bangura – a lady). 

Three of the Sierra Leoneans are staying in the compound, while Omar Fofana is said to be the one in charge of the compound but does not live there.

According to DLEAG, the seizure is the result of a well-coordinated high-profile intelligence-led tactical operation starting with an initial seizure of one block at Westfield Junction. 

Followed by the seizure of 44 blocks and subsequently, 689 blocks were discovered in a store inside a private residence located near Paradise View in Salagi, Kombo North District, West Coast region.

Alhaji Bakary Gassama, DLEAG director general, said “the preliminary test conducted by our forensic experts suggests that the blocks are Cocaine positive.

“The Agency will work closely with all national stakeholders and international partners to consolidate this achievement and hold perpetrators to criminal accountability.

“Amidst desperate disinformation campaign against the Agency by groups and individuals who are serving nothing but the interest of criminals and criminal organizations, the Agency remained focused and resolute in discharging our mandate.”

“This seizure is yet another demonstration of our capacity, resolve and commitment to the fight against transnational drug trafficking. We are untethered in ensuring that The Gambia remain a hostile ground for drug traffickers and no amount of intentional distraction will wither us from this path,” he added.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba