The Embassy of The Gambia in Ankara has issued a stark warning to Gambian citizens traveling to or transiting through Istanbul International Airport, citing a sharp rise in arrests related to the transportation of controlled substances.
In a press release dated March 26, 2026, the embassy highlighted a significant increase over the past year in the number of Gambians intercepted, deboarded, and arrested at the busy Turkish hub. Many of those detained claimed they were carrying moringa leaves or powder, a popular herbal product locally known in The Gambia as “never die”, but Turkish authorities classified the substances as controlled drugs.
The release notes that some individuals identified themselves as mere transporters, often referred to locally as “GP” (general purpose carriers or gig workers), stating they had no knowledge of the contents beyond what they were told. Despite these claims, the embassy emphasized that such incidents have led to serious legal consequences, including heavy fines and long-term imprisonment.
Moringa oleifera, commonly called the “miracle tree” or “never die” in Gambian communities, is a nutrient-rich plant widely used in West Africa for its purported health benefits, including as a vegetable, supplement, and traditional remedy. However, its legal status can vary by country, and what appears to be innocent herbal material may be flagged as prohibited or suspicious when crossing international borders, especially in transit points with strict drug enforcement.
The embassy advised all Gambian citizens to familiarize themselves thoroughly with the legal classification of herbs, roots, and plant-based products in their destination countries as well as any transit airports. It urged travelers to exercise extreme caution when accepting or transporting any organic substances on behalf of others.
“Failure to heed this advice may result in significant costly legal consequences, and predicaments such as heavy fines or long-term imprisonment,” the press release warned.
This advisory comes amid broader reports of drug trafficking activities involving West African nationals at Turkish airports and borders. Turkish customs authorities have reported substantial drug seizures in recent years, including at Istanbul Airport, as the country serves as a major transit point for various controlled substances.
The Gambian Embassy in Ankara, which also maintains contact details for consular support, encouraged citizens to verify regulations independently and avoid risks that could derail travel plans or lead to detention.
Travelers are reminded that ignorance of local laws is generally not accepted as a defense in such cases. Gambians planning journeys involving Istanbul or other international hubs are encouraged to consult official sources and the embassy before departure.
Contact information for the Embassy of The Gambia in Ankara:
- Phone: +90 312 442 57 71 / +90 530 370 55 62
- Email: gamembassyankara@mofa.gov.gm or gamembank@gmail.com
- Address: Rasih Kaplan Sk 8 Oran, Çankaya-Ankara 06450
- Website: www.gamembank.org
- Social: @GambiaTurkiye
