The Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) has arrested 53 individuals in a sweeping nationwide crackdown involving a wide range of prohibited drugs, including cannabis sativa, cocaine, cannabis resin (hashish), skunk, kush, ecstasy, molly, gummies and crystal meth.

The arrests spanned multiple communities including Soma, Brusubi, New Yundum, Brikama, Kololi, Farafenni, Bundung, Kanilai, Bakau, Serrekunda and other areas.

Several suspects were apprehended at strategic checkpoints such as Denton Bridge, New Yundum, Kanfenda and ferry terminals in Barra and Banjul.

Among notable seizures, officers recovered 297 pills of ecstasy from two suspects in Kerr Sering and Salaji, 200 ecstasy pills from two others in Fajara and Kanifing, and 100 ecstasy pills from a Senegalese national arrested at the Barra Ferry Terminal.

In separate operations, officers seized 70 parcels of suspected cannabis sativa in New Yundum, multiple bundles concealed in rice bags in Soma and Kanilai, as well as significant quantities of kush and skunk across various locations.

Cocaine pellets, cannabis resin (hashish), molly and crystal meth were also confiscated in different operations.

Several suspects were found concealing the suspected drugs in transparent medical plastic bags, foil paper, nylon bags, cups, bowls, and even empty rice bags, according to the agency.

DLEAG confirmed that all suspects are currently in custody while further investigations into their respective cases continue.

Management of the agency assured the public of its unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the country.

The agency further called for sustained public support, collaboration and community participation in the national fight against drugs.

By Adama Makasuba