Gambiaj.com – (ESSAU, The Gambia) – A regional security task force in The Gambia’s North Bank Region has intercepted 22 suspected migrants in an intelligence-led operation aimed at disrupting irregular migration networks.

The operation, conducted on February 24, 2026, in Essau Sami by the Lower North Bank Regional Task Force, followed what police described as credible intelligence about individuals gathering in connection with a suspected unlawful migration attempt.

According to the Gambia Police Force, the operation was led by Sub-Inspector Dibba. Upon arrival at the identified location, several individuals reportedly fled, but 22 people were apprehended and transported to Essau Model Police Station for screening and verification.

Preliminary findings indicate that the group included nationals from Senegal, Guinea Conakry, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, and The Gambia.

Police said all those intercepted have since undergone verification procedures and were confirmed to be migrants.

They are currently being held in temporary custody pending their formal handover to the Gambia Immigration Department in Barra for further administrative action in line with immigration regulations.

Authorities added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend agents or facilitators suspected of organizing or enabling irregular migration attempts.

The police said the operation forms part of their broader strategy to dismantle irregular migration networks, enhance border security, and protect individuals from undertaking dangerous journeys.

The force also commended residents of the North Bank Region for their continued cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven policing and coordinated security efforts.