Gambia arrests Nigerian man with 9,020 ecstasy tablets, drug-making machine

Authorities in The Gambia have arrested a 53-year-old Nigerian national, Celestine Godwin, in possession of a significant quantity of illicit substances and a suspected drug-manufacturing machine. The arrest marks a notable breakthrough for the Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) in its ongoing fight against drug trafficking.

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a 53-year-old Nigerian national Celestine Ikenna Godwin was arrested in possession of 9,020 ecstasy tablets some quantities of suspected cannabis ruderalis (skunk).

Godwin was found with 9,020 ecstasy tablets and quantities of suspected cannabis ruderalis, commonly known as skunk. More significantly, the DLEAG seized a machine believed to have been used for manufacturing and processing illicit drugs. This discovery is the first of its kind recorded by the agency in The Gambia, raising concerns about the potential establishment of clandestine drug production facilities.

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the suspect was arrested with a machine suspected to be used for manufacturing and processing illicit drugs.

In a statement released on Facebook, DLEAG's Public Relations Officer, Dawda Sanyang, highlighted the significance of the find. The agency emphasized its determination to disrupt not only the movement of illicit substances into the country but also any attempts to establish local drug production capabilities. The seizure demonstrates the evolving nature of drug-trafficking threats in the region.

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This development is particularly significant as the discovery of the equipment represents the first case of its kind recorded by the Agency in The Gambia.

Godwin remains in DLEAG custody as investigations continue. The agency is actively working to identify and dismantle any networks or individuals connected to this operation, warning traffickers that The Gambia will not serve as a safe haven for their activities. This operation is considered a major milestone in the nation's efforts to combat illicit drugs.

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The drug seizure together with the processing equipment demonstrates the Agency’s determination to disrupt not only the movement of illicit drugs into the country, but also any attempts to establish facilities for drug production.