26/05/2026
Immigration officers abscond!
When we heard reports about immigration officers who absconded after attending a two-week training program in Italy, we decided to investigate what really happened.
Twenty immigration officers were sent for training on migration management and border control. Among them were Basirou L. Bojang, the overall best trainee in border control at the Gambia Armed Forces Training School; Lamin Drammeh, the second-best trainee; Bambi Jah, the best female trainee; and Dibril Ceesay, the best marksman.
After receiving their visas from the Italian Embassy in Dakar, the group departed for Rome on May 9, 2026. Upon arrival in Italy, all their passports were collected by the senior immigration officers leading the delegation.
During the training, rumours began circulating that some officers were planning to abscond. Basirou’s name was mentioned, and, in an attempt to prevent his escape, his room window was reportedly sealed to stop him from jumping out and disappearing.
Frustrated by the situation, Basirou eventually absconded on Monday, May 18. Despite extensive searches, he could not be found. Later, he sent a WhatsApp message to Bambi informing her that he would not be returning. Bambi showed the message to the rest of the group, but she was then accused of also planning to abscond.
On Wednesday, May 20, Bambi and Lamin said they were going to the supermarket. Instead, they also disappeared, leaving behind their passports, uniforms, and other personal belongings.
Following the incident, security at the camp where the officers were staying was tightened to prevent any further disappearances. On Sunday, May 24, the remaining members of the group returned home to The Gambia and are expected to resume work tomorrow.
Basirou, Bambi, and Lamin are all firstborn children in their families. They were among the brightest young immigration officers in the country, earning a monthly salary of D7,400.
What advice would you give them?
Via what’s on Gambia
