By Adama Makasuba
Gambian police have described Ansu Jarju as a notorious serial robber with a long history of criminal activities, linked to multiple high-profile thefts and daring escapes from police custody.
During a press conference in Banjul, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Seedy Muctarr Touray confirmed that Jarju has been involved in several robberies and repeatedly evaded law enforcement. According to the police, he is believed to have orchestrated and participated in various heists across The Gambia, ranging from bank robberies to large-scale fraud. His ability to elude authorities has made him a high-priority target for the police.
In 2024, Jarju was named the prime suspect in a robbery at the Guaranty Trust Bank branch in Bakau. Following the theft, which involved significant money, he was quickly arrested and remanded. However, after being granted bail, Jarju made a daring escape from police custody and disappeared without a trace. “The suspect escaped into thin air, and for a time, he was nowhere to be found,” the IGP stated. The circumstances surrounding his escape have raised concerns within law enforcement about potential lapses in security and the handling of suspects on bail.
Further investigations into Jarju’s criminal activities have revealed a deeper crime pattern spanning several years. In September 2022, he was allegedly involved in a robbery in Senegambia, a popular area for both locals and tourists. A businessman had entrusted Jarju with a large sum of money to pay his workers. Instead of fulfilling his duty, Jarju allegedly fled with the funds, abandoning a car at the scene, where police later discovered his national identity card, linking him to the crime. Despite the evidence, Jarju managed to evade arrest for months, leading to his status as one of the most wanted criminals in the country.
His name has also surfaced in connection with previous criminal activities, including several robberies where he was suspected of targeting small businesses and individuals. Law enforcement agencies have confirmed that Jarju has been involved in other thefts, but his ability to slip through the cracks of the justice system has made him a persistent challenge for the police.
After months of manhunts and undercover investigations, Jarju was eventually captured and brought back into police custody. His capture resulted from coordinated efforts between the Gambia Police Force and international law enforcement agencies. The IGP expressed relief at Jarju’s apprehension but cautioned that investigations into his criminal network are ongoing.
In addition to his robberies, Jarju has been linked to Ousainou Diabetes, an Ivorian national who was previously remanded at Mile Two Central Prison. The two are believed to have formed a criminal alliance, with Diabete allegedly assisting Jarju in several heists. Authorities are exploring these connections to understand the full scope of Jarju’s criminal activities.
The IGP also mentioned that more arrests could be imminent as the police investigate Jarju’s associates. “We expect to charge Jarju in court soon, and we will continue our efforts to bring all those involved in these crimes to justice,” he said.
The case has raised concerns about bail procedures and the justice system’s ability to handle repeat offenders effectively. Jarju’s situation has sparked a debate about the need for reforms in granting bail, especially for individuals with a history of evading law enforcement. As Jarju awaits his court appearance, the public remains on edge, with many hoping that his capture will mark the end of his reign of terror in the country.
