The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has launched Operation Zero Departure as part of efforts to combat irregular migration, locally known as “the back way”.

The operation, activated on Friday, 9 January 2026, involves the Kanifing Municipality and North Bank Region regional commands and is aimed at strengthening surveillance along coastal areas and inland border crossing points.

GID said a dedicated task force has been deployed in both regions for a 30-day high-intensity patrol and surveillance operation to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling networks operating along the River Gambia.

The Immigration Department reaffirmed its commitment to curbing irregular migration and tackling all networks involved in human smuggling, as part of broader efforts to prevent dangerous departures and save lives.