Gambiaj.com (BANJUL, The Gambia) – A large-scale drug bust in the West Coast Region has led to the discovery of nine cannabis plantations between the villages of Kanilai and Kujenjeh, marking a significant achievement in The Gambia’s efforts to combat illegal drug cultivation and trafficking. In a coordinated operation launched by the Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG), three suspects were apprehended as operatives conducted a sweeping sting on October 5, 2024, with initial nightly raids beginning around 2:00 a.m. GMT.
DLEAG’s operation uncovered eight farms initially, with an additional plantation located by a support team from the Police Intervention Unit (PIU). The agency expressed gratitude to the Inspector General of Police, the AIG Operations Office, and the PIU for their integral role in the raid.
The Chief of Defense Staff also provided crucial logistical support on short notice, showcasing a concerted effort among security forces in a shared battle against illegal drug activities.
This operation marks a noteworthy moment for DLEAG’s new Director General, who has emphasized inter-agency collaboration in his recent agenda to curb illicit drug activities in the country. “This kind of success highlights the impact of pooling resources and working together to combat not only drug-related crimes but also all forms of criminality,” a statement from DLEAG’s management noted. The suspects arrested in Kanilai and Kujenjeh remain in custody as investigations continue.
In a related incident, DLEAG operatives conducted a separate operation on September 30, resulting in the arrest of Alfred John Francis, an American national residing in Sifoe. Nine additional cannabis plantations were discovered at his property, alongside two parcels and two wraps of suspected cannabis. Francis was detained and remains under investigation.
DLEAG reiterated that cultivating prohibited plants, such as cannabis, violates Section 36 of The Gambia’s Drug Control Act 2003. Violators face steep penalties, including fines of no less than D300,000 for individuals and D1 million for corporations. The agency’s management cautioned the public to respect the law, emphasizing that any infractions will be prosecuted “without fear, favor, affection, or goodwill.”
With increasing discoveries of illicit cannabis farms across the country, DLEAG hopes these joint operations send a strong message against illegal cultivation and trafficking. The collaborative approach taken in Kanilai and Kujenjeh highlights a crucial step in The Gambia’s ongoing commitment to ridding its communities of illegal drugs and reinforcing a culture of lawful agricultural practices.
