GRA Clarifies Incident Involving International Footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul Airport

GRA Clarifies Incident Involving International Footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul Airport The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a formal statement to address the recent incident involving Gambian international footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul International Airport on July 11, 2025. According to the GRA, Mr. Barrow arrived via Turkish Airlines at approximately 7:00 PM. Upon arrival, his five suitcases were flagged during mandatory luggage screening. This process was conducted by a joint airport security task force made up of the GRA, Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG), State Intelligence Services (SIS), Food Safety Unit, and Public Health officials. The suitcases were flagged by the Image Analyst over customs-related concerns. The GRA states that Mr. Barrow did not personally engage with customs officers after being informed of the flagged luggage. Instead, his brother and several associates attempted to present the bags to GRA Shift Supervisor Mrs. Anna Jarju, who was not present during the initial screening. Despite repeated requests, Mr. Barrow reportedly refused to come forward for inspection. His brother, acting on his behalf, opened the luggage but failed to produce any invoices or documents to support the declared contents. Due to the lack of proper valuation documentation, customs duties were initially estimated at D15,000 (D2,500 per suitcase) but later reduced to D10,000. Mr. Barrow, through his brother, reportedly claimed an inability to pay the revised amount. GRA officials held a private meeting with the footballer and ultimately allowed him to leave without payment, issuing a stern warning to ensure future compliance. In its statement, the GRA emphasized that all individuals, regardless of status or fame, are subject to the same customs procedures. The Authority also praised the professionalism and integrity of its staff, especially Mrs. Anna Jarju, whose conduct was reportedly in line with standard protocols. The incident, GRA confirmed, was captured on CCTV footage with audio. Furthermore, the Authority reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on staff misconduct and noted that a dedicated Internal Affairs Unit is in place to investigate and enforce disciplinary actions when necessary. The GRA reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the enforcement of national laws. The Authority concluded by urging all travelers to cooperate fully with customs officials to support the protection of The Gambia’s economy and national security. — GRA Management