The Gambia Immigration Department has strongly condemned the actions of three immigration officers who allegedly absconded in Italy during an official training programme, describing the incident as a deliberate act that undermines the integrity of the institution and the country.

The department confirmed reports that three officers disappeared during a two-week training on migration management, border security, and document examination held at the Italian Police Training Academy in Nettuno, Rome.

The training programme formed part of a bilateral cooperation framework between the Governments of The Gambia and Italy and involved twenty Gambian immigration officers.

According to the GID, Assistant Immigration Control Officers Basirou L. Bojang, Lamin Drammeh, and Bambi Jah absconded from their residence before the completion of the training.

The department stated that preliminary findings suggest the action was “premeditated and planned.”

“Their conduct compromises the integrity of The Gambia, strains diplomatic cooperation between The Gambia and Italy, and risks portraying a negative perception of our officers’ professionalism and loyalty,” the statement noted.

The GID further stressed that the actions of the officers do not represent the values or expectations of the department, adding that the institution condemns the incident “in the strongest possible terms.”

Authorities said swift administrative and disciplinary measures have already been initiated, including notifying Italian and European authorities and requesting the immediate tracing and removal of the officers through coordinated channels.

The department disclosed that all relevant information, including passport biodata, visas, and photographs, has been shared with the appropriate authorities to support ongoing efforts.

The GID also assured the public and international partners that it remains committed to discipline, professionalism, and maintaining strong bilateral cooperation in migration and border management.

“The GID will continue to pursue all available means to repatriate these officers and enforce stringent disciplinary measures,” the statement added.

By Adama Makasuba