Senegal: 24 irregular migrants intercepted in Gambia
Gambian immigration services stopped 104 people, including 24 Senegalese nationals, in Mayamba and Batokunku.
Gambian immigration officers intercepted 104 individuals attempting irregular migration during a nighttime operation on November 11, 2026. The operation took place in the localities of Mayamba and Batokunku. Among those apprehended, 24 were identified as Senegalese nationals.
The group also included 61 Gambians, 8 Guineans, 7 Sierra-Leoneans, 3 Malians, and 1 Ivorian. The intercepted individuals, comprising 9 women and 7 minors, were transferred to the Tanji and Barra detention centers for identification and profiling.
In a separate but related operation in Ziguinchor between November 8 and 9, Senegalese gendarmes arrested 17 suspected smugglers and seized three pirogues, five outboard motors, fuel, GPS devices, and provisions. This operation aimed to prevent departures towards Spain, with routes also planned via Gambia and Thiaroye.
Why it mattersSenegalese citizens are directly affected by the interception of 24 nationals attempting irregular migration in Gambia and the arrest of 17 smugglers in Ziguinchor.