Cop Gambia launches SOP project 

MG Chao, head of Cop Gambia said their initiative alongside the project is to make sure they curb losing lives through migration and trafficking.

Seedy M. Touray, Director General of The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) said smuggling of migrants and human trafficking represent a serious security threat and also linked to serious and other organised crimes such as money laundering and terrorism. “Human right violation and impunity with which smugglers and traffickers operate has a direct negative impact on our societies,” he noted, adding that these crimes are mainly transnational in nature.

He therefore said the fight against these require joint and coordinated efforts not only by local state agencies or actors but also with international agencies and partners.

He pointed out that migration is deeply rooted in The Gambia, saying it continues to be a country of origin, transit and destination. Thus, the project will contribute immensely in curbing smuggling of migrants and human trafficking.

Tonya Roy, representative of the German Embassy in Banjul, said her Government is ready to support The Gambia Government in their efforts to strengthen and improve its capacities.

Ana Gracia, representative of the Spanish Embassy in Banjul, said the project would allow all officers to perform their duties to the highest standards and protect human right in fighting against the smuggling of migrants and trafficking of humans.

Manding Saidykhan, Principal Assistant Secretary and Migration Desk Officer at the Ministry of Interior, highlighted that his ministry is always ready to support any initiative that will strengthen the country’s security.