Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-02-27 09:59:42
The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has been actively combating the issue of human trafficking and smuggling in the country. The Director General of the GID, Seedy M. Touray, recently disclosed that the department’s Operation Zero Departure initiative has led to 29 interceptions and the successful prosecution of 20 smugglers and traffickers.
The clandestine movement known as Backway has been a major concern for The Gambia, particularly impacting the youth population. Director General Touray emphasized the devastating consequences of this perilous journey and the department’s efforts to minimize such movements. Operation Zero Departure, organized towards the end of the previous year, proved to be a successful endeavor. From January to December, the GID was able to intercept 29 cases, leading to the prosecution of 20 individuals involved in smuggling and trafficking activities.
Despite the success of the initiative, Director General Touray acknowledged that the department faced challenges along the way. Two boats managed to escape during the operations, highlighting the ongoing difficulties in combating irregular migration.
Touray expressed his gratitude towards the officers involved in the zero-departure operation, praising their tremendous work and encouraging them to maintain their efforts. He emphasized the need for vigilance, noting that while the department aims to discourage smuggling activities, traffickers continually adapt their strategies to evade detection.
The Immigration DG also acknowledged the evolving nature of irregular migration dynamics, highlighting the importance of managing expectations in the face of these challenges. Despite the shifting landscape, the GID remains committed to its mission of combating human trafficking and smuggling activities in The Gambia.
The successful prosecutions resulting from Operation Zero Departure demonstrate the department’s dedication to addressing this critical issue. By intercepting cases and holding perpetrators accountable, the GID is making significant strides in preventing illegal migration and protecting vulnerable individuals from falling victim to exploitation.
In conclusion, the efforts of the Gambia Immigration Department in prosecuting human traffickers and smugglers underscore the importance of collaboration and dedication in combating this complex issue. Through initiatives like Operation Zero Departure, the department is working tirelessly to safeguard the well-being of the country’s residents and uphold the rule of law.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
