Immigration officers in Barra have intercepted 32 suspected would-be migrants in an intelligence-led operation targeting irregular migration.

The operation, carried out on 19 April 2026 by the Barra Migration Management Unit in collaboration with the North Bank Border Patrol Unit, took place at Mendy’s Lodge, where the individuals were reportedly gathering ahead of a planned journey to Europe via the Mediterranean.

All suspects are in custody and undergoing profiling, screening and further investigation to identify any facilitators linked to the attempted trip.

Those intercepted include 22 Senegalese, six Gambians, two Malians and two Guineans.

The Gambia Immigration Department said it remains committed to dismantling migrant smuggling networks, protecting lives and safeguarding the country’s borders.