Gambia armed forces thwart innovative motorcycle theft scheme at border checkpoint

In a significant breakthrough, troops from the Gambia Armed Forces stationed at the 2 Infantry Battalion in Farafenni Barracks intercepted two suspects on Sunday, July 28, 2024, who were allegedly involved in a sophisticated motorcycle theft operation.

The interception took place at a strategic checkpoint between Posteh Kerr Ali and Posteh Kerr Ayib, located along the Gambia-Senegal border.

The suspects were found transporting various dismantled motorcycle parts, revealing a new and alarming modus operandi employed by criminals in the region.

According to military sources, the thieves have developed a strategy that involves disassembling stolen motorcycles and other valuable items, which they then distribute among themselves. Each individual travels separately to evade detection, only to reconvene at a pre-arranged location to reassemble the stolen goods.

This innovative theft tactic not only complicates law enforcement efforts but also poses a significant challenge to the safety and security of the community. Once reassembled, the criminals often alter the appearance of the stolen items, including changing colors, before attempting to sell them in the market.

Following the successful interception, Lieutenant Colonel Ebrima I. Krubally, the Commanding Officer of the 2 Infantry Battalion, promptly handed over the apprehended suspects to the Gambia Police Force for further investigation and legal action. This incident highlights the ongoing collaboration between military and police forces in combating crime and ensuring public safety in The Gambia.