By Adama Makasuba
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) in Gambia has reported a notable increase in drug-related arrests in the country. In 2023, there were 623 cases involving 633 individuals, with 539 being Gambian nationals and 94 being non-Gambian nationals. This represents a decrease from the previous year, as 632 cases and 650 individuals were arrested in 2022.
Notably, the number of non-Gambian nationals arrested has increased, rising from 87 in 2022 to 94 in 2023. DLEAG also highlighted a rise in the arrests of Senegalese and Sierra Leoneans for drug-related offenses over the past two years. Specifically, 33 Senegalese and 34 Sierra Leoneans were among the foreign nationals arrested in 2023.
As drug abuse continues to impact Gambian society, DLEAG is actively working to combat drug trafficking and address the effects of illegal substances, particularly on the youth.
