GAMBIA: PROTECTION FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS ENGAGED IN ILLEGAL MINING AND FISHING PRACTICES

Illegal Fishing and Timber Trade Exposed in The Gambia

Banjul, The Gambia - A recent report has uncovered the alarming extent to which foreign-owned fish processing plants along the coast near the Senegal border are contributing to the illegal export of fish intended for human consumption. Fishmeal and fish oil are allegedly shipped to Vietnam and re-labelled on the black market for re-export to China, bypassing Chinese food-safety controls.

Asian Firms Involved in Illegal Timber Trade

The report also highlights the presence of Asian firms in The Gambia linked to the illicit timber business. Furthermore, Senegalese soldiers are reportedly involved in the direct transit of illegally stolen timber from Casamance, passing through The Gambia to reach end markets in China.

Country Used as Safe Haven for Criminal Networks

The Gambia has been identified as a safe haven for Bissau-Guinean drug traffickers and other criminal networks from neighboring countries such as Mauritania, Guinea-Conakry, Mali, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. The country’s vulnerability to money laundering is also exposed, with private companies engaging in fraudulent arrangements involving state officials to combine their legal activities with illegal ones.

Government Criticized for Lack of Proactive Measures

The government has been criticized for its lack of proactive measures to counter the spread of organized crime and corruption. The country’s weak regulatory environment and inadequate enforcement capacity have also been highlighted as major concerns.

Efforts to Combat Money Laundering and Financial Crime

Despite these challenges, the government has made some efforts to combat money laundering and financial crime by establishing a Financial Intelligence Unit and cooperating actively with international organizations. However, more needs to be done to strengthen enforcement capacity and address the root causes of corruption.

The report notes that civil society and social protection mechanisms in The Gambia are limited, with victims of organized crime often left without adequate support and protection. Efforts to increase protection measures, such as victim identification and shelter services, are underway, but more needs to be done to provide comprehensive support to victims.

Challenges for Media Freedom

The country’s transition from an era of suppression of the press has faced challenges, with occasional pressures on media outlets and instances of brutality by security forces reported. However, significant efforts have been made to create an environment conducive to media development, and NGOs have enjoyed increased freedom to operate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Gambia’s struggle against organized crime and corruption is ongoing, and more needs to be done to strengthen enforcement capacity, address the root causes of corruption, and provide comprehensive support to victims.