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Foreign Nationals Engaged in Illegal Activities in The Gambia

A recent report has revealed that foreign nationals are involved in illegal activities in The Gambia, including illegal mining and fishing practices.

Illegal Fishing Practices

According to sources, foreign-owned fish processing plants are operating along the coastline near the Senegal border, contributing to the illegal export of fish intended for human consumption. The fishmeal and fish oil allegedly sent to Vietnam is then re-labelled on the black market and re-exported to China, bypassing Chinese food-safety controls.

Illegal Timber Trade

Asian firms in The Gambia have been linked to the illicit timber business. 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.

Drug Trafficking and Other Criminal Activities

The country has also become 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.

Corruption and Money Laundering

The report highlights the significant concern of money laundering in the Serekunda and Senegambia regions, where hotels and restaurants are used as fronts for illicit activities. Some establishments are allegedly owned by individuals associated with drug trafficking and illegal timber exports, who have invested corruption money from the previous regime.

Leadership and Governance

The Gambia’s leadership has been criticized for its lack of effective governance and anti-corruption measures. The country’s transition from a military dictatorship to a democracy has faced challenges, including the suppression of press freedom and the closure of privately-owned media stations.

Economic and Financial Environment

Despite efforts to combat money laundering and financial crime, The Gambia’s economic regulatory environment remains weak. The government has recently shown commitment to deepening democratic governance and establishing a sustainable economic regulatory capacity, but more needs to be done.

The support and protection provided to victims of organized crime in The Gambia have been limited due to the absence of a comprehensive policy and insufficient resources. However, the government has made efforts to increase protection measures, such as victim identification and providing access to medical care and counselling.

Conclusion

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The report highlights the significant challenges facing The Gambia, including corruption, money laundering, and illegal activities. To address these issues, the country needs to strengthen its anti-corruption measures, improve its economic regulatory environment, and provide greater support and protection to victims of organized crime.