In a significant ruling, Justice Ebrima Jaiteh of the High Court of The Gambia has ordered five accused individuals—Seedy Ceesay, Lamin Ceesay, Yaya K. Jatta, Modou Bojang, and Muhammed Jallow—to enter their defense in a high-profile drug trafficking case involving a conspiracy to smuggle cocaine through Banjul International Airport. The decision follows a failed “no case to answer” application, with the court finding compelling evidence of their involvement in drug dealing and conspiracy.
The case, which began on June 29, 2024, centers on an attempt to transport 30 blocks of cocaine, concealed in three pieces of luggage, to Barcelona, Spain, via a Vueling flight. The accused, including four foreign nationals—Vilma Cabral Roel, Ana Patricia Dos Santos Furtado, Simara Nadiya Martins, and Miriam Maria Mendes—face charges under the Drug Control Act for trafficking, dealing, and conspiring to deal in prohibited drugs. The prosecution presented 17 witnesses and key evidence, including the seized cocaine, weighing certificates, €26,950 in cash, and the accused’s cautionary statements.
Justice Jaiteh highlighted the roles of the five Gambian accused, noting their coordinated efforts. Yaya K. Jatta, an aviation security officer, was described as a key conspirator who facilitated the operation despite knowing the luggage contained drugs. Modou Bojang, a VIP driver, was recruited by Jatta to transport the illicit luggage. At the same time, Muhammed Jallow, another security officer, failed to act on the discovery of the drugs and negotiated a bribe. Seedy and Lamin Ceesay were also implicated in the conspiracy, with the court finding their actions demonstrated a clear intent to violate drug laws.
“The prosecution has established a prima facie case,” Justice Jaiteh ruled, emphasizing the “sophisticated conspiracy” at the airport. The court rejected the defense’s application, stating that the evidence revealed a serious breach of airport security protocols and individual accountability.
The ruling raises concerns about the integrity of Banjul International Airport’s security systems, with the involvement of aviation and security personnel underscoring vulnerabilities. The five accused must present their defense to address the charges, which carry significant legal consequences.
The trial, which has drawn attention for its international scope and implications, continues to unfold as the court seeks to clarify the full extent of the conspiracy.
