Gambiaj.com – (FONI BINTANG, The Gambia) – A major anti-drug operation in Nyangbolong Village, Foni Bintang District, West Coast Region, has led to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of a significant quantity of suspected cannabis sativa, cannabis seeds, and unlicensed hunting rifles. The pre-dawn raid, conducted on Saturday, February 8, 2025, was carried out by operatives of the Drug Law Enforcement Agency The Gambia (DLEAG) with support from the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) of The Gambia Police Force (GPF).

During the operation, authorities confiscated over 200 bundles of suspected cannabis sativa, 13 twenty-liter gallons filled with cannabis seeds reserved for cultivation, and three unlicensed hunting rifles. The seized drugs and weapons indicate the scale of illicit cannabis cultivation and distribution in the area.

Among those arrested was 35-year-old Abdoulie Sonko, who was found in possession of 13 bags containing 165 bundles of suspected cannabis sativa and 11 gallons of cannabis seeds. Security forces also seized two unlicensed hunting guns from his property.

Edrisa Sonko, 39, was caught with nine bundles of suspected cannabis sativa concealed in a plastic container. Alagie Jammeh, 26, and Modou Sanyang, 35, were each found with three bundles of suspected cannabis sativa.

Desere Sanyang, 40, and Duwa Badjie were jointly arrested for possessing eight bags of suspected cannabis sativa. Additionally, Desere Sanyang was found with an unlicensed hunting gun.

Yusupha Sonko, 49, was taken into custody for having one bundle and one parcel of suspected cannabis sativa, while 50-year-old Nfally Nyassi was found with one parcel and additional quantities of the suspected drug.

A further search in a cashew farm within the village led to the discovery of a bag containing nine bundles of suspected cannabis sativa and two twenty-liter gallons of cannabis seeds. The three unlicensed hunting rifles seized during the operation were handed over to the Sibanor Police Station for further investigation.

Following the successful raid, DLEAG expressed appreciation for the continued collaboration between security forces in tackling drug-related crimes. The agency specifically commended the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector of Police in charge of operations, and the PIU Command for their crucial support in executing such operations.

Officials reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring public safety and intensifying efforts to curb drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession in The Gambia.