A 27-year-old Gambian woman and her 35-year-old Nigerian husband have been sentenced to life imprisonment in Dubai for attempting to smuggle 4.2 kilograms of marijuana into the country. Both were also fined approximately D9.6 million each.
The arrest took place on January 2, 2024, at Dubai International Airport during a routine customs inspection. Authorities detected unusual density in the woman’s luggage, leading to the discovery of marijuana concealed inside vehicle filters.
Further investigations revealed that the drugs were intended for the woman’s husband, who was arrested in the Naif area of Dubai while attempting to retrieve the package from a cargo service. Evidence presented in court included forensic reports, digital communications, and witness testimonies, which linked the couple to the smuggling operation.
The court found that the couple had been involved in similar drug shipments in August and November of the previous year. Both individuals were convicted on November 28, 2024, and their sentences include life imprisonment, deportation after serving their terms, and destruction of the confiscated drugs.
If the fines remain unpaid, additional jail time will be imposed, with one day served for every Dh100 owed. The names of the couple have not been disclosed.
