Counterfeit Coup Foiled in Gambia: Police Seize Fake $23,100, 57.5M CFA, Arrest Suspect in Bakau

In a decisive operation against financial crime, officers from the Bakau Police Station of the Gambia Police Force (GPF) arrested a suspect and recovered large quantities of suspected counterfeit foreign currency.

Acting on a tip‐off, law enforcement agents moved in on Alpha Jallow AKA (Muslim name – name change), a Nigerian national, leading to the seizure of both US dollars and West African CFA francs believed to be forged.

According to police sources, the operation began earlier this week when intelligence units identified Jallow’s residence as a potential hub for distributing fake notes.

“The Gambia Police Force commends the vigilance and cooperation of the public, particularly the business community, in helping to expose such criminal activity,” a GPF spokesperson said, acknowledging vital community support that led to the breakthrough.

During a meticulously executed search of the premises, detectives uncovered $23,100 in counterfeit US dollar bills alongside 57.5 million CFA francs in suspicious notes. All seized banknotes have been secured and are now slated for forensic examination to determine their origin, printing methods, and possible links to wider counterfeiting networks.

Jallow has been formally charged with possession of counterfeit currency and remains in custody as investigators delve deeper into the case. Authorities are working to trace the supply chain behind the fake notes and to identify any collaborators who may have facilitated their importation or distribution within The Gambia.

Highlighting the importance of timely reporting, the GPF urged citizens to remain alert. “The public is strongly encouraged to promptly report any suspicious transactions or suspected counterfeit dealings, as early intervention is key to disrupting financial crimes and safeguarding the national economy,” the spokesperson added.

This operation underscores the Gambia Police Force’s renewed focus on financial security and community‐centered policing. “The GPF remains committed to proactive enforcement and community‐centered policing to strengthen public trust and ensure economic security,” the statement concluded, as officers prepare for further raids and investigations to clamp down on illicit currency operations.