Seven members of the Gambia Navy have been dismissed for what the Armed Forces described as “conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline.”
The officers affected include Lieutenant Abba Nyassi, Fleet Chief Petty Officer Musa Dampha, Warrant Officer Class 2 Ismaila Jobe, Chief Petty Officer Musa Jammeh, Chief Petty Officer Alagie Secka, Chief Petty Officer Ebou Marong, and Leading Seaman Lamin DK Sanneh.
Their dismissal follows weeks of speculation linking naval officers to alleged drug-related activities. However, army spokesperson Captain Kemo Kanuteh clarified that the decision had nothing to do with drugs.
According to the military, the soldiers were instead found to have aided a clandestine network operating under the cover of Altima Sea Sport Limited, a company currently under investigation for activities described as “inconsistent with its declared purpose.”
The decision came after an internal investigation uncovered serious breaches of military discipline. Among the findings were:
Unauthorized preparation and use of two privately owned speed boats and a yacht.
Communications data showing direct involvement of the dismissed soldiers.
Coordinated movements and activities tied to the network.
Evidence of receiving material rewards, including cash and livestock.
The army stressed that the actions of the soldiers compromised national security and naval integrity, breaching their oath of service and betraying public trust. Officials added that their continued presence in the Navy would have posed an unacceptable risk to security and mission integrity.
