Central Bank of the Gambia staff member Lamin Marong and two associates, Nfamara Njie, and Lamin Darboe, were intercepted by security officers at the Jenoi checkpoint. During the routine screening, authorities discovered 370,000 Gambian Dalasis and 57,800 US Dollars in their vehicle.
Subsequently, the trio was arrested and transferred to the Mansakonko police station for further investigation. The incident has prompted an official inquiry to determine the source and intended use of the substantial funds.
Meanwhile, Pa Samba Jow, a well-known political activist, has urged authorities to refrain from interfering in a recent police operation involving an alleged Central Bank employee in The Gambia. Jow emphasized the need for officials to “back off and allow the police to do their job” after officers at a Jenoi checkpoint reportedly intercepted the individual with $57,800 and D370,000 on Friday, January 24th.
Jow claims to possess credible information regarding the incident, including the suspect’s identity, who is thought to be part of a trio. He also has photographs and video evidence of the money being documented and handed over to the fraud unit.
Concerns have been raised about potential attempts by a government minister to influence the investigation’s outcome.
Jow highlighted the importance of an impartial investigation: “We expect the police to be allowed to do their job without interference or hindrance. We are watching closely.”
Human Rights Activist Madi Jobarteh also reacted to the incident and expressed strong concerns regarding the recent arrest of Central Bank of the Gambia staff member Lamin Marong and his associates, who were found with substantial cash at the Jenoi checkpoint.
“This is typical! It only reflects the consistent attitude of protecting corrupt officials and the interference of politicians in the work of The Gambia Police Force,” Jobarteh stated.
He emphasized that the situation raises serious questions about the legitimacy of transporting such large sums of money, likening it to a potential cartel operation.
Jobarteh recalled previous instances of misuse of the Central Bank, noting, “We saw how Jammeh used our Central Bank as a personal ATM, and this looks like a similar operation.”
He further criticized any attempts by a Minister to obstruct the police investigation, labeling such actions as criminal. “That Minister should be sacked and arrested,” he asserted.
Jobarteh concluded by calling on President Barrow to ensure that the investigation remains free from interference and that those involved are held accountable. He expressed hope that appropriate measures will be taken to expose and punish any wrongdoing associated with this incident.
