Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) has initiated an investigation into allegations of tampering with drugs intended for destruction during its annual drug destruction exercise.

Speaking to The Standard, Commissioner Abdoulie Ceesay, DLEAG’s director of media, advocacy, and drug demand reduction, confirmed the inquiry but refrained from providing further details, stating, “until the final outcome of the investigation.”

The exercise, held on Thursday at Old Cape Road in Bakau, involved the incineration of a significant quantity of confiscated narcotics, including cannabis, cocaine, skunk, and kush. This annual event is designed to underscore the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability in handling illicit drugs from seizure to destruction.

Before being destroyed, the seized substances underwent analysis by DLEAG’s scientific unit to determine their composition and characteristics. However, a source close to the agency revealed that discrepancies arose soon after the destruction exercise.

“It was observed that certain perceived drugs remained unburned, and when subjected to scientific re-testing, they were found not to be cocaine,” the source disclosed.

In response to these findings, the agency’s director general ordered an immediate investigation. A panel has been constituted, comprising representatives from the police, the State Intelligence Services (SIS), and DLEAG itself, to delve into the matter.

The allegations have raised concerns about the integrity of the destruction process and the measures in place to prevent tampering.

As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the unburned substances and their implications for DLEAG’s operations.

This incident brings back the general public’s concerns over the importance of rigorous oversight and the need for enhanced safeguards in managing confiscated narcotics to maintain public trust.

Recently, missing packs of seized cocaine intended as evidence in court proceedings have led to charges against a magistrate and law enforcement officials.