Photo of a destroyed cannabis farm and Jinack Island
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Jinack Island, often called “Weed Island” by locals and tourists, has long been a focal point of cannabis culture located in the North Bank Region of The Gambia.
Despite its serene, off-the-grid reputation, recent law enforcement actions have shattered the myth that the island is a “sovereign” haven for marijuana cultivation.
In this report, DUBAWA gives an in-depth overview of how the Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) stormed Jinack Island, also known as “the untouchable village,” where residents engaged in cannabis farming and trafficking.
For decades, the community has been actively engaged in cannabis farming, as they believe the island has spiritual powers that deter law enforcement officials from entering and enforcing the law.
But recently, that decades-long myth has been broken as officials stormed the island and destroyed dozens of cannabis farms, leaving families worried.
Historical context of “The Untouchable Island”
Jinack Island is located on the north bank of the Gambia River, bordering Senegal. Historically, its geography, separated from the mainland by a creek and accessible mainly by boat, created a natural barrier for law enforcement. The community is known for cannabis cultivation.
The Myth
For decades, a narrative persisted that Jinack was a “no-go zone” for uniformed officers. Local folklore even suggested that “bad things” would happen to any officer who tried to interfere with the farms.
This has shielded the community from law enforcement involvement in its cannabis cultivation despite public awareness of such practice.
For residents of Jinack, the lack of infrastructure and alternative employment is the main reason they turned to cannabis (locally known as yamba) as a primary cash crop, taking advantage of the island’s fertile soil and secluded location.
The Legal Reality in The Gambia
The Gambia maintains some of the strictest drug laws in West Africa under the Drug Control Act (DCA).
Unlike some neighbouring countries exploring decriminalisation, cannabis is 100% illegal in The Gambia for both recreational and medicinal use.
Severe Penalties
Cultivation: Section 31 of the DCA strictly prohibits the planting of any controlled drug, and possession of more than 2.5 grams is legally classified as “intent to traffic,” which can carry a minimum fine of D1,000,000 (approx. $14,000 USD) and a mandatory prison sentence of 10 years.
According to Gambian laws, if cannabis is found growing on your property, the burden of proof is on the owner to prove they did not know of it.
Recent crackdown and destruction of cannabis farms in Jinack Island
In a significant shift in strategy, on 28th February 2026, the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG), supported by the Police Intervention Unit (PIU), launched a massive raid on Jinack Island in early March 2026. Watch a video of the aftermath of the cannabis farm’s destruction on Gambia Talents TV.
Operatives uprooted and burned large swathes of cannabis plantations. This was a “sting operation” designed to send a clear message that no part of Gambian territory is exempt from the law.
End of the “Safe Haven”
The DLEAG spokesperson, Dawda Sanyang, confirmed that the operation was meticulously planned to dismantle the perception that Jinack was a lawless territory.
He added that several cannabis farms were destroyed, a move he said sends a clear signal to cultivators and traffickers that no area is beyond the reach of law enforcement.
DLEAG authorities have reiterated their commitment to dismantling drug networks and warned that similar operations will continue across the country.
Community and public reaction
While the government views this as a victory for national security, both the public and some residents have expressed desperation, citing a “lack of alternatives” for their livelihoods and calling for government investment in legitimate agriculture.
One Amsay Busso described the destruction of the cannabis farms in Jinack as deeply disturbing, noting that she’s not in support of its cultivation as it’s illegal.
However, she argued that destroying people’s farms without offering alternatives is not justice.
“It is punishment without compassion,” she stated. “Many of these farmers are not criminals by choice; they are victims of poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunity.
Burning their crops may enforce the law, but it does not solve the real problem. It only pushes struggling families deeper into hardship.”
She further noted that a responsible government should enforce laws with humanity, wisdom, and solutions, rather than mere force.
“If something is illegal, then provide education, create alternative livelihoods, and support communities to transition legally. That is leadership. We can uphold the law without destroying lives,” she added.
A viral video of an elderly woman who claimed to be a seasoned cannabis farmer is trending. She said the government has destroyed her only source of income.
“I am devastated…this is my only source of income. I use the money generated from my cannabis farm to feed my family and sponsor my children, who are already on an irregular journey,” she said.
Reports on the arrest and prosecution of cannabis
However, by analysing reports from the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) and judicial records from 2020 to 2026, we can build a clear picture of the scale of enforcement.
Estimated arrest, prosecution, and volume
Cannabis remains the most seized and prosecuted drug in the country. Based on DLEAG monthly and annual summaries: Annual Arrests: The agency typically arrests between 400 and 700 individuals per year for drug-related offences.
Cannabis Dominance: Approximately 85% to 90% of these arrests are specifically for Cannabis Sativa. According to the World Prison Brief and local NGO reports.
Roughly 50%–55% of the total prison population in The Gambia is made up of “pre-trial detainees.” A significant portion of these are young men (ages 18–35) held on cannabis charges.
Conclusion
Despite ongoing debate on the legalisation of cannabis in The Gambia, current laws have prohibited its cultivation, usage, and consumption, and anyone who is found guilty will be prosecuted. The destruction of cannabis farms in Jinack has sharpened public opinion on cannabis.
