The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has intercepted 14 suspected would-be migrants and arrested two suspected migrant smugglers during an operation in Brufut aimed at disrupting irregular migration.

The operation, carried out on 21 July by the GID’s Border Patrol Unit in collaboration with Spain’s Guardia Civil, also led to the seizure of a 60-horsepower boat engine believed to have been intended for the journey.

According to the GID, the intercepted group comprised five Gambians, seven Senegalese and two Malians, including 10 adult men, two adult women and two minors.

The two suspected smugglers remain in immigration custody while investigations continue.

The department said the operation highlights its continued collaboration with national and international partners to combat irregular migration, dismantle migrant smuggling networks and strengthen border security.