The Gambia Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) has arrested seventeen individuals in connection with a large-scale operation that resulted in the seizure of various controlled substances, including ecstasy, cannabis sativa, cannabis resin, and cocaine.

The arrests took place over several days, with notable captures including 31-year-old Senegalese fisherman Alioune Diagne, who was apprehended on October 21, 2024. 

Diagne was found with 193 ecstasy pills concealed in medical sachets and a transparent bag.

The following day, 35-year-old Lat Grand Joof was detained at a checkpoint, discovered with 110 ecstasy pills hidden in a yellow nylon bag.

Safin Williams, a 39-year-old woman from Sierra Leone, was arrested on October 20 at the Faraba UTG Campus, where she was found in possession of 283 wraps of suspected cannabis sativa.

The operation has unveiled a concerning trend, as suspects as young as 19 were implicated, raising alarms about increasing rates of drug abuse among the youth. 

Other individuals arrested were found with various forms of cannabis and drug paraphernalia, underscoring an urgent need for community intervention.

All suspects remain in custody as DLEAG continues to investigate their activities. The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety of communities throughout the nation.

The rising number of drug-related arrests has sparked discussions regarding the societal impact of drug trafficking in The Gambia.

 Community leaders are calling for increased awareness and educational initiatives to address the dangers of drug abuse, particularly among the younger population.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba