By Nelson Manneh
In a recent operation, the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) successfully detained three foreign individuals for possession of illicit substances and firearms. DLEAG spokesperson, Ousman Saidyba, shared that the suspects were arrested after being found in possession of two pistols and ammunition. The suspects, who hailed from India and Guinea-Bissau, were also found with significant quantities of banned drugs.
According to Saidyba, the Indian national, Mohammed Rafique Kabir Khan, was identified as the manager of Envy Night Club. He was apprehended in Fajara, where officers discovered over 25,000 pills of suspected ecstasy and various amounts of other controlled substances such as cannabis resin and gummies. The Bissau Guinean suspects, Quintino Djedju and Papis Djedju, claimed to be a ticket seller and fisherman, respectively, for the same club. They were arrested at the club’s location in Fajara for possession of 25 blocks of suspected cocaine.
Further investigations led to the discovery of more prohibited substances at Khan’s residence, including hashish and crystal molly. Additionally, officers found two pistols and live rounds at the scene. The suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues.
According to Saidyba, a group of individuals has been apprehended and charged with drug trafficking offences, as well as dealing in prohibited and controlled substances. They may also face charges for conspiracy, based on evidence uncovered during the investigation, under section 53 of the Drug Control Act (DCA) 2003.
Furthermore, Saidyba has revealed that the Indian national among the suspects is facing additional charges for the “use or possession of firearms” under section 47 of the DCA 2003. This section states that anyone who commits an offence under the act using a firearm or causing violence will receive double penalties upon conviction.
In a recent update, Saidyba also announced that during the period of July 24th to 31st, 2025, the Agency has recorded eight drug-related offences involving nine individuals who were taken into custody. These arrests took place in Banjul, the Kanifing Municipality, and the West Coast Region. Significant quantities of substances such as cannabis, kush, skunk, cocaine, and ecstasy were also seized by operatives during these operations.
“A 49-year-old Senegalese national was also arrested by operatives of the Agency stationed at Amdalai border post. He was taken into custody for the possession of a pistol and twelve live rounds. Since he was not arrested with drugs. he will be handed over to the police for further processing and necessary actions,” he expounded.
The DLEAG has urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking and to remain vigilant in keeping The Gambia safe from the harmful effects of illegal substances.
