DLEAG’s Central River Region command, with the Basse and Lower River Region commands, the Police Intervention Unit and the Fire and Rescue Services, raided suspected cannabis-growing sites in a sting that began around 2:00 am on 10 October.[1][2] Officers uncovered two cannabis plantations on the outskirts of Sawma Kunda village and in nearby Mbafaf.[1][2]
Nine people were arrested, including Momodou Camara, 60, the alkalo (village head) of Sawma Kunda, and two alleged child offenders aged 15 and 17.[1][2] The other suspects were named as Kaka Jawo, 26, Essa Camara, 27, Samba Barry, 26, Samba Bah, 21, and Abdoulie Bah, 24.[1][2] DLEAG spokesperson Ousman Saidybah said the arrest and interrogation of 28-year-old Essa Jawo of Mbafaf was pivotal, leading officers to the rest of the suspects.[1][2]
Two motorcycles believed to have been used in the cultivation operation were recovered, and the suspects remained in custody while investigations continued.[1][2] DLEAG described the bust as a significant breakthrough.[1][2]