Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Drug Law Enforcement Agency Gambia (DLEAG) reported a significant breakthrough over the weekend, apprehending 39 individuals for drug-related offenses across various night clubs in the Greater Banjul area. The intensive operation, conducted between July 5th and 8th, 2024, was part of DLEAG’s ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and abuse.

According to the agency’s report, the arrests were made at three prominent night clubs: Lava Night Club, Spot Bar at Kololi, and Envy Night Club. Among the apprehended, 19 individuals were arrested at Lava Night Club, 10 at Spot Bar, and 9 at Envy Night Club. The suspects were found in possession of various quantities of Ecstasy pills, Skunk, Cannabis, Hashish, and Cannabis Sativa.

In a related incident, eight individuals, including five Gambians, two Nigerians, and one Moroccan national, were detained for obstructing DLEAG operatives during their duties at Envy Night Club.

DLEAG’s management issued a stern warning to night club owners and other establishment managers to ensure their premises are free from drug-related activities. They highlighted that knowingly permitting such activities contravenes section 40 of the Drug Control Act 2003. The agency emphasized the legal presumption that premises managers are complicit in drug activities unless proven otherwise.

“All the suspects arrested in the weekend operation are in custody while further investigations continue,” DLEAG stated.

In a separate incident, personnel from The Gambia Transport Service Company (GTSC) intercepted 313 pills and one stone of Ecstasy from a passenger who fled the scene. The drugs were discovered during a routine luggage check, and the matter has been handed over to DLEAG for further investigation.

DLEAG commended GTSC for their vigilance and stressed the importance of public cooperation in combating drug trafficking. They announced plans to collaborate with GTSC to enhance search procedures and deter illicit activities.

DLEAG continues to urge the public, especially passengers, to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement officers or GTSC operators.