Editorial: FAKE WEALTH, REAL PRISON TIME. Diaspora Deception Ends in Conviction Over Forged Cash

When fake money is used to impress, the result isn’t admiration—it’s a criminal record.

The Gambian diaspora must understand a simple truth: there is no real-life competition that justifies living a false lifestyle—least of all one that involves carrying forged bank notes. Beyond damaging the Gambian economy, the consequences are severe. The risk of arrest, conviction, and imprisonment is real and high.

That reality came sharply into focus as the Gambia Police Force secured the conviction of Cherno Abdourahman Mendy and Yaya Mendy for purchasing forged bank notes.

The case, Inspector General of Police v. Cherno Abdourahman Mendy and Yaya Mendy, was heard at the Bundung Magistrates’ Court before His Worship Magistrate I. Dibba. Both accused persons are Gambian nationals resident in the United Kingdom.

They were charged with one count of purchasing forged bank notes, contrary to Section 312(b) of the Criminal Offences Act, 2025.

The prosecution team—Assistant Superintendent of Police L. Badjie and Inspector B. Jarjue—presented the facts of the case and tendered exhibits, all of which were admitted into evidence by the court.

At the conclusion of the trial, the court found both accused persons guilty as charged and sentenced each of them to

A fine of One Hundred Thousand Dalasis (D100,000), or two (2) years’ imprisonment in default; and

Payment of Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dalasis (D450,000) as compensation to eight (8) complainants, or two (2) years’ imprisonment in default.

The court further ordered that all recovered forged bank notes be forfeited to the State and destroyed by the Central Bank of The Gambia.

The Gambia Police Force has once again reaffirmed its commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting the integrity of the nation’s financial system.

€33,500 ‘AFCON Miracle’ Collapses: Self-Styled Marabout Arrested After Mali’s Exit

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

A man who allegedly promised to secure Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) success for Mali in exchange for cash has been arrested following the national team’s quarter-final elimination, in a case that has sparked widespread public outrage.

The suspect, identified as Mr Sinayogo, presented himself as a marabout — a traditional spiritual healer — and claimed he could guarantee victory for the Malian national team. In return, he reportedly collected more than 22 million CFA francs (approximately €33,500) from supporters eager to see Mali lift the continental trophy.

Those hopes were dashed on Friday night when the Eagles were narrowly defeated 1–0 by arch-rivals Senegal, ending their AFCON campaign. The promised triumph failed to materialise, triggering anger among contributors who felt deceived.

Tensions escalated the following day when a crowd gathered outside Sinayogo’s residence in Bamako, demanding explanations and refunds. The situation became increasingly volatile, prompting riot police to intervene and escort him away for his safety.

Shortly afterwards, authorities placed Sinayogo under arrest on suspicion of fraud. He is currently being held by Mali’s Cybercrime Division, highlighting how digital platforms may have been used to solicit funds and promote his claims.

“Charlatanism is an offence under Malian law,” a police official told AFP, confirming the basis of the charges. The official added that making an arrest during the height of the AFCON tournament would have posed significant practical and public-order challenges.

Investigators are now examining Sinayogo’s background, with sources indicating he was previously known as a political activist before abruptly adopting the identity of a spiritual practitioner.

“He declared himself a marabout almost overnight and amassed a considerable sum,” said a social media content creator familiar with the case, suggesting the move was driven by opportunism.

The incident underscores the powerful intersection of football passion, cultural belief and public vulnerability. As Mali reflects on its AFCON disappointment, the country is also confronting a deeper issue — the cost of misplaced trust, counted not in goals conceded, but in money lost.

From Bush to Boom: Why the Brufut “Dubai” Comment Should Inspire, Not Divide

By Yaya Dampha

NPP Diaspora Coordinator

In Support of President Adama Barrow

President Adama Barrow’s recent description of Brufut as “Dubai” has ignited intense public debate. Predictably, the comment was seized upon by critics and reduced to mockery. Yet beyond the noise and political sarcasm lies a deeper truth that deserves serious reflection: the President was speaking in metaphor, highlighting progress, possibility, and the power of development-driven leadership.

A generation ago, Brufut was largely bushland with scattered compounds. Only a few years ago, travelling to Brufut was itself a struggle. The roads were riddled with potholes to the extent that many taxi drivers refused to go there unless passengers paid exorbitant fares. There were no streetlights, no pavements, and movement—especially at night—was difficult and unsafe. Today, those conditions are history. Brufut now boasts improved road networks, street lighting, walkways, modern housing, utilities, schools, and growing commercial activity. These changes are visible, tangible, and undeniable. Political disagreement cannot erase physical development.

Dubai is often referenced globally not because other nations seek to copy it wholesale, but because it represents what focused vision, planning, and disciplined execution can achieve within a relatively short time. That was the essence of President Barrow’s comparison. It was not a claim of equivalence, but a statement of ambition—a reminder that transformation is possible when development is prioritised.

Unfortunately, Gambian politics too often rewards outrage over substance. Instead of engaging with the broader message about infrastructure, planning, and national ambition, some critics chose literal interpretations and partisan ridicule. This exposes a deeper weakness in our political culture: we are more energised by election drama than by development outcomes. We argue endlessly about personalities, yet lose interest when discussions turn to healthcare, education, energy, or long-term infrastructure.

History teaches us that successful nations are built when leaders think beyond election cycles. Dubai’s transformation was driven by long-term planning and competence, not constant political agitation. Leadership of that kind focuses on the next generation, not the next rally. That is the lesson President Barrow was invoking.

Today, many Gambian elites travel abroad for medical treatment while our own hospitals struggle with limited resources. We demand express highways, modern universities, and world-class services, yet often resist the bold thinking and comparisons that inspire progress. A modern nation cannot be built with 19th-century political habits.

The real divide in Gambian politics is not between political parties, nor between so-called “progressives” and “regressives.” It is between those committed to nation-building and those consumed by perpetual campaigning. President Adama Barrow’s development-focused leadership—centred on infrastructure, stability, and gradual transformation—deserves to be evaluated fairly and honestly, not distorted for political gain.

The Gambia does not need to become Dubai or Singapore. It needs to become a confident, competent, and forward-looking version of itself. That means world-class hospitals instead of medical tourism, modern campuses instead of overcrowded classrooms, durable highways instead of temporary repairs, and an economy driven by productivity rather than dependency.

Whether Brufut looks like Dubai is beside the point. What matters is that progress is happening and that a vision for more exists. If we rise above petty outrage and embrace development politics, metaphors will no longer offend us—they will inspire us.

President Adama Barrow’s words should challenge us to think bigger, plan better, and argue less. Nation-building demands nothing less.

NPP Diaspora Coordinator Congratulates President Barrow on By-Election Victories

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

The National People’s Party (NPP) has recorded significant victories in the recently concluded by-elections in Kiang Kaiaf and Foni Bantanjang Wards, further consolidating the party’s growing grassroots strength across the country.

In Kiang Kaiaf Ward, NPP candidate Omar Touray defeated the United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate Sulayman Sanneh after securing 1,127 votes against UDP’s 895, winning by a margin of 232 votes. Meanwhile, in Foni Bantanjang Ward, NPP’s Abdoulie Badjie emerged victorious in a closely contested race with 402 votes, narrowly edging out APRC No to Alliance candidate Bakary M. Manga, who polled 401 votes. Independent candidate Alhagie Njie secured 155 votes.

Reacting to the outcome, the NPP Diaspora Coordinator and Head of Media, Mr. Yaya Dampha, has extended warm congratulations to His Excellency President Adama Barrow and the entire NPP leadership for what he described as “well-deserved and meaningful victories.”

According to Mr. Dampha, the twin wins are a clear demonstration of President Barrow’s development-oriented leadership and the positive impact of government projects on the lives of ordinary Gambians.

“These victories reflect the confidence Gambians continue to place in President Adama Barrow and the National People’s Party. They are a direct endorsement of the government’s development agenda and its visible impact at community level,” he said.

Mr. Dampha further noted that the by-election results send a strong political message ahead of the 2026 presidential election, stressing that the NPP remains firmly rooted at the grassroots and increasingly popular nationwide.

“The outcome of these elections serves as a clear signal to opposition parties that the NPP, under the leadership of President Barrow, is well-positioned for an outright victory in the December 2026 presidential election,” he added.

He concluded by wishing President Barrow continued success and strength as he leads the country, while reaffirming the commitment of the NPP Diaspora to support the party’s vision for peace, stability, and national development.

The victories in Kiang Kaiaf and Foni Bantanjang further strengthen the NPP’s growing political influence and underline its expanding support base across The Gambia.

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Authorities intensify operations as perilous illegal migration routes claim more lives

The growing menace of illegal migration through dangerous sea routes has once again come under the spotlight, as the Government of The Gambia intensifies efforts to curb the so-called “backway” journey to Europe—a voyage that has cost countless lives in the treacherous Atlantic waters.

The Government of The Gambia has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in the number of people attempting to migrate illegally to Europe by sea, using the country as a launch point. In response, special operation teams under the Ministry of Interior have been activated to decisively tackle the situation.

Through coordinated, intelligence-led enforcement operations, the Gambia Immigration Department, in collaboration with the Gambia Police Force, targeted identified hotspot areas across the country. These operations led to the interception of 782 intending migrants and the arrest of four suspected organisers believed to be involved in human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

The intercepted migrants comprise nationals from several West African countries, including 233 Senegalese, 197 Gambians, 176 Guineans, 148 Malians, 16 Ivorians, six Nigerians, two Mauritanians, and one each from Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, and Ghana.

Authorities have commended the vigilance and cooperation of members of the public whose timely information played a crucial role in the successful interceptions. The Ministry of Interior noted that this level of civic responsibility demonstrates a strong national spirit and collective resolve to confront emerging social challenges and criminal networks that prey on vulnerable individuals.

Meanwhile, rescue and investigation efforts continue following the tragic boat capsizing incident of 1 January 2026. Authorities say work is ongoing to account for all those involved and to provide support to affected families, as the nation mourns yet another painful reminder of the deadly risks associated with illegal sea migration.

The Ministry, however, strongly condemned the indiscriminate circulation of graphic images of deceased victims without the consent of their families, describing the act as insensitive and inhumane. Both the media and the public have been warned to immediately desist from such practices.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and safeguarding national security, the Government praised the dedication of security forces on the frontline and reiterated its resolve to dismantle illegal migration networks. The public has once again been urged to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.

As the crackdown continues, authorities stress that no dream of a better life is worth the deadly gamble of the backway journey—a path increasingly marked by tragedy, loss, and heartbreak.

Finance Minister Applauds GRA’s Strong 2025 Performance Ahead of 2026 Targets

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

As the country prepares to enter 2026, the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Honourable Seedy K.M. Keita, has lauded the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) for what he described as an exceptional performance throughout 2025.

The Minister made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the GRA headquarters in Banjul, where he held discussions with the Commissioner General, Yankuba Darboe, and members of the Authority’s senior management team.

According to the Minister, the visit was intended to personally convey his appreciation to the GRA staff, following an earlier letter in which he formally commended the institution for its achievements. He noted that beyond written correspondence, it was important to acknowledge the workforce in person for their collective efforts.

Hon. Keita praised the GRA’s steady institutional growth, describing it as an organisation whose reputation now extends beyond national borders. He said the Authority’s achievements place it among leading revenue institutions in the sub-region and reflect its emergence as a centre of excellence in public revenue administration.

He further highlighted the importance of teamwork and inclusivity, stressing that every member of staff plays a vital role in the Authority’s success. The Minister encouraged employees at all levels to remain committed and to build on the progress already made as the country looks ahead to 2026.

In his response, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe welcomed the Minister’s visit and expressed gratitude for the recognition accorded to the Authority. He assured the Minister of GRA’s continued dedication to meeting and exceeding its revenue targets in the coming year.

Also speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the GRA Board, Mr Dawda M.E. Ndure, commended the Minister’s leadership approach, noting that his gesture of appreciation had significantly boosted staff morale.

The Gambia Revenue Authority operates under the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs and is mandated to mobilise domestic revenue through tax and customs administration. Its performance remains critical to government financing, economic stability, and the achievement of national development objectives.