Operation "Storm Watch,” Police Arrested Over 200 In Jinack

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Following President Adama Barrow’s declaration that illegal migration in The Gambia will no longer be treated as “business as usual,” security forces have intensified operations to curb the practice and hold both migrants and smugglers accountable. The government says the tougher stance is aimed at reducing irregular migration and preventing the tragic loss of lives at sea, where hundreds of young men, women and children—many from the subregion—have perished in recent years.

In line with this directive, the Gambia Police Force, through the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) in the North Bank Region (NBR), carried out a major early-morning operation on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, targeting suspected irregular migration activities in the Jinack area.

The operation, code-named “Storm Watch,” commenced at around 05:00 hours and involved PIU officers from Kerewan under the leadership of their commander. The team conducted coordinated raids, searches and arrests at identified locations believed to be linked to the facilitation of irregular migration and unlawful departure attempts.

As a result of the operation, more than 200 individuals suspected of involvement in irregular migration were arrested and evacuated from the Jinacks. They are currently undergoing screening and processing at the Barra GID and Essau Model Police Station, in collaboration with immigration and other relevant security authorities.

Police authorities said the success of the operation was bolstered by the cooperation of community members from Kajata village, particularly Jinack Nigi, whose support helped officers secure key locations and ensure an orderly process.

According to the Gambia Police Force, the operation forms part of sustained, intelligence-led efforts to dismantle irregular migration networks, prevent dangerous journeys and safeguard lives.

The police have commended the communities in the Jinacks for their cooperation and reiterated that community partnership remains central to the fight against irregular migration. Members of the public are urged to continue supporting security efforts by reporting suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or by calling 9968885.