By Nelson Manneh
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG), announced it has secured six convictions in drug-related cases, a significant milestone in its campaign against drug trafficking and abuse.
Speaking during the agency’s weekly situational update, Public Relations Officer Ousman Saidyba highlighted the agency’s progress in its drug supply suppression and demand reduction efforts from November 1 to November 7, 2024.
“These convictions reflect our continued commitment to curbing drug-related offenses across the country,” said Mr. Saidyba, emphasizing DLEAG’s focus on enforcement and sensitization. The six convictions were handed down in various courts, including Kanifing Magistrates Court, Brikama Magistrates Court, Bundung Magistrate Court, Mansa Konko Magistrates Court, and Bansang/Basse Magistrates Court.
During this period, DLEAG arrested a total of 21 individuals on charges of drug possession and trafficking. Mr. Saidyba reported, “Among the arrestees, 20 are male, while one is a female. They include 14 Gambians, along with nationals from Senegal, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Guinea-Bissau.”
The week’s arrests also yielded substantial drug seizures, including eight bundles, three parcels, and 262 wraps of cannabis sativa; eight pieces of hashish; 138 wraps of Kush; seven wraps of skunk; three wraps of cocaine; a bottle of black chip; and 9,917 ecstasy pills.
“The quantities reflect the growing range of illegal substances being trafficked in The Gambia, posing a threat to public health and security,” Mr. Saidyba noted.
In addition to enforcement, DLEAG filed eight new cases across various courts, with two related to drug trafficking and six to drug possession. As part of its demand reduction initiatives, DLEAG held radio talk shows on Star FM, GRTS Radio, and Soma Community Radio, raising awareness of the risks of drug use and trafficking. The agency also collaborated with the ECOWAS Permanent Mission in The Gambia and the ECOWAS citizens’ organization to organize a one-day sensitization program for ECOWAS nationals residing in the country.
“Our preventive programs are crucial in educating the public and discouraging drug involvement. Community sensitization and engagement are vital to creating a drug-free society,” Mr. Saidyba emphasized.
