By Bako Christopher
Banjul, The Gambia — The Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia, DLEAG, has foiled what it described as an attempt to establish a synthetic drug production facility in the country, with the arrest of a 53-year-old Nigerian national and the seizure of large quantities of illicit drugs and drug processing equipment.
The suspect, Celestine Ikenna Godwin, was arrested on 24 August, 2026 following an intelligence-driven operation by DLEAG operatives.
According to the agency, the raid yielded 9,020 ecstasy tablets, a quantity of suspected cannabis ruderalis, commonly known as skunk, and a machine believed to be used for manufacturing and processing illegal drugs.
DLEAG officials said the seizure of the manufacturing machine is the first of its kind recorded in The Gambia’s history.
They expressed concern that the discovery indicates a shift in regional drug trafficking, with criminal networks now exploring the possibility of setting up clandestine laboratories for synthetic drugs within the country.
“This find raises serious concerns that we may be dealing with attempts to establish local production of synthetic drugs,”_ a senior DLEAG official said. _“It shows that the threat is no longer limited to trafficking and distribution alone.”
The agency stated that the operation reflects its resolve to target not only drugs being imported into The Gambia, but also any effort to create domestic production capacity.
Godwin remains in custody as investigators work to identify the origin of the equipment, trace supply chains, and determine if other persons are connected to the alleged plot.
DLEAG described the arrest as a “major milestone” in its enforcement mandate and a strong warning to drug syndicates that The Gambia will not be used as a base for trafficking or manufacturing.
The agency commended its officers for their vigilance and professionalism during the operation.
It also called on the public to support ongoing efforts by providing credible information that can help protect communities, particularly young people, from the growing dangers of drug abuse and trafficking.
“Our approach remains proactive and intelligence-led,” DLEAG said. “We urge citizens to work with us to ensure The Gambia does not become a haven for traffickers or drug manufacturers.”
Investigations continue.
