#Headlines

Court remands Mauritanian businessman over D150M debt scandal

Dec 2, 2025, 11:45 AM

Prominent Mauritanian businessman, Mohamed Babe, also known as Lemrabolt O. Med or Babe, has been remanded at Mile 2 Prison after allegedly defaulting on payments for goods worth more than D150 million.

Babe has long been regarded as one of the most financially influential Mauritanian traders in the country.

Babe, who has lived in The Gambia for several decades, built a reputation over the past 30 years through extensive dealings with major importers, often enjoying preferential arrangements that contributed to his considerable wealth.

According to multiple traders, Babe collected goods over a four-month period but repeatedly postponed payments, citing a sluggish market and difficulties selling the merchandise. Despite giving several assurances, he is reported to have failed to settle his debts on the date he had promised various large importers. Sources also claim he used two different names when purchasing goods from different suppliers.

Babe later reportedly declared insolvency on the same day his payments were due, a step that stunned many in the local market, given his long-standing reputation for financial strength. Unlike in earlier cases, however, the courts took a harder line. He was immediately ordered into custody at Mile 2 prison.

Babe is expected to reappear in court on December 17 2025.