Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-02-29 09:06:48
The surge in irregular migration in late last year has been likened to a Tsunami by the Commissioner of the Migration Management Unit of the Gambia Immigration Department (GID), Foday Gassama. This unprecedented increase in irregular migration has not only affected The Gambia but the entire sub-region as well, making it a significant challenge for authorities.
According to Commissioner Gassama, the spike in cases of irregular migration in 2023 has swept the entire sub-region, stretching the capacity of law enforcement agencies to the limit. The GID, which had previously been successful in intercepting boats attempting to leave the Gambian shores, faced a much greater challenge last year. The two patrol teams dedicated to fighting irregular migration were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of cases brought to their attention.
In 2023, the GID investigated 55 cases of irregular migration, conducted 29 operations, seized 10 boats, and prosecuted 33 individuals for smuggling migrants. A total of 317 migrants were intercepted in various locations, particularly in the West Coast and North Bank regions. These numbers were unprecedented and indicated the seriousness of irregular migration activity in The Gambia and the sub-region.
As irregular migration gained momentum, the GID had to redirect all its resources, including vehicles and human resources, to combat this growing problem. The Commissioner emphasized the need for increased efforts and collaboration to address the root causes of irregular migration and prevent further escalation of the issue.
The impact of irregular migration goes beyond The Gambia, affecting the entire African region. The influx of migrants not only poses a challenge for law enforcement agencies but also has broader implications for security, stability, and socio-economic development. Addressing irregular migration requires a multi-faceted approach that includes addressing the underlying reasons why people choose to migrate irregularly, strengthening border control measures, and enhancing cooperation with other countries in the region.
In conclusion, the surge in irregular migration in 2023 was described as a Tsunami by Commissioner Gassama, highlighting the significant challenges faced by The Gambia and the sub-region. Efforts to combat irregular migration must be intensified, with a focus on addressing the root causes of migration, improving border security, and fostering cooperation among countries in the region. Only through coordinated action can the impact of irregular migration be mitigated and its root causes addressed effectively.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
