Justice Department returns millions to Gambia from ex-president’s corruption
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The Department of Justice returned approximately $2.5 million in funds to the Republic of The Gambia, money obtained through corruption during the time of former President Yahya Jammeh.
Jammeh and his wife, Zineb Jammeh, used illegally obtained funds to buy a mansion in Potomac, Maryland. The Justice Department then seized and sold the property, allowing the return of the net proceeds to The Gambia.
Jammeh reportedly gained millions by embezzling public funds and accepting bribes from businesses in The Gambia seeking monopolies. He then worked with family and associates to launder the money through shell companies and trusts internationally. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva stated the case demonstrates international cooperation in holding those who misuse the financial system accountable.
The government of The Gambia will use the returned funds to compensate victims of the Jammeh regime, following the guidelines of the Gambian Victims Reparations Act of 2023. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case, building on a group established in 2003 to investigate foreign corruption. HSI has seized over $500 million in illicit gains since that time.
