Nelson Manneh
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency in The Gambia (DLEAG), in collaboration with the Sensitive Investigation Unit and the Seaport Command, executed a meticulously coordinated operation on Saturday, May 18, 2024, resulting in the confiscation of suspected illegal drugs.
The raid led to the seizure of 76 parcels of Skunkweed, totaling 42.8 kilograms, and 1988 tablets of Ecstasy. This operation followed a previous seizure of 15 parcels of Skunkweed from the same source on April 18th, 2024, bringing the total haul to a staggering 91 parcels of Skunkweed and 1988 tablets of Ecstasy.
Mr. Ousman Saidyba, the spokesperson of DLEAG, hailed this breakthrough as a significant disruption to the criminal activities of a major Gambian skunk and ecstasy trafficking ring based in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The mastermind behind the operation, identified as 32-year-old Musa Keita, a Gambian residing in Atlanta, has been traced as the sender of the illicit drugs. According to shipping records, Musa has been importing large quantities of drugs into The Gambia since early 2021, using unsuspecting container freight service providers.
“The shipments, often labeled with fake names and telephone numbers, are declared as foodstuffs and medications for his mother, HulayTouray, aged 58, of Sukuta. Hulay, acting as the first link in the local distribution chain, has been apprehended and detained, while Musa remains a fugitive in the United States of America,” he reported.
The agency revealed that the boxes are usually labelled with fake names and telephone numbers and declared as foodstuff and medicaments for his mother.
“His mother HulayTouray, a 58-year-old resident of Sukuta will receive the boxes from the shipper and serve as the first line in the local distribution chain,” Mr. Saidybah stated.
The seizure of ecstasy is particularly significant amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it has emerged as a drug of concern, especially among young girls in The Gambia. Saidyba called for collective action against drug trafficking, He emphasized the importance of combating both domestic and international criminals involved in the trafficking of drugs into the country. DLEA-G reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding society from the perils of drug abuse, while also focusing on implementing rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs of drug abuse victims.
