Personnel of The Gambia Police Force (GPF) have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking, apprehending three Sierra Leonean nationals for joint possession of substantial quantities of prohibited and controlled drugs.

Mohamed Conteh, 23, an online promoter, Mohamed Kamara, 23, a laborer, and Isha Kamara, 24, a businesswoman, were arrested in Latrikunda Saibiji on the 16th of March 2024 around 02:00 hours GMT. The police confiscated four multicolor nylon bags containing suspected kush and 595 tablets of suspected ecstasy from the suspects.

This seizure marks the single largest confiscation of kush ever recorded in The Gambia. If the weighment certificates show that the cumulative quantity is above 2 kilograms, the suspects will face charges for prohibited drug trafficking-related offenses under section 43 of the DCA 2003.

Pending further investigations, the suspects could also be charged with dealing in prohibited drugs (section 33), dealing in controlled drugs (section 34), and conspiracy, attempt, aiding, and abetting (section 53), all under the DCA 2003. The suspects have been handed over to the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) for further investigations and post-seizure measures, including scientific analysis and eventual prosecution as provided for in the law.

Authorities have used this opportunity to call on the public to remain vigilant and actively participate in the fight against drugs. The safety and security of children, youth, and society as a whole should be a collective responsibility. It is imperative to report suspicious drug and criminal activities to law enforcement agencies promptly. By working together, communities can make a difference and maintain safety, security, and a drug-free environment.