Over 2 Dozens Boats Destined For Europe Intercepted

The deputy Public Relations Officer of The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has disclosed that ‘so far’ their personnel have intercepted 27 boats at various locations in the country that were about to depart for Canary Islands through irregular means. Inspector Muhammed Bah made this disclosure on Thursday during the launch of their new initiative dubbed ‘Operation Zero Departure’, a campaign meant to discourage and deter migration through clandestine means. From the figure on the number of interceptions made, it appears that more people are attempting to embark on the journey with shifts in departure points using ‘Bolongs’ and small hideouts rivers. This operation comes as the coastal community of Bakau and the nation at large mourn the recent loss of loved ones who perished at high sea while trying to cross the Atlantic Ocean to Canary Islands in Spain. Going further, Bah meanwhile acknowledged the support of their partners both nationally and internationally, notably IOM, EU and The Gambia Red Cross Society, in their fight against irregular migration. “They’ve really made tremendous efforts during our inceptions, although there were some who were able to escape as seen in the last unfortunate incidents, which claimed many lives,” he said. Inspector Bah maintained that they have launched this new operation with the ultimate objective to deter departure or irregular migration from the country. He thus called on all to cooperate with their personnel during the operation as they are responding to a national call to save lives and properties.