Gambia Discloses Jammeh’s Seized Assets, But Luxury Vehicles Remain Missing

By Fatou Touray

Government Releases Asset Inventory, But Key Items Unexplained

The Gambia government has taken a significant step toward transparency by releasing its first official inventory of assets seized from former President Yahya Jammeh. However, the conspicuous absence of several high-profile items—particularly Jammeh’s fleet of luxury vehicles—has raised questions about the completeness of the disclosure.

The Ministry of Justice published detailed records of hundreds of transactions involving confiscated assets, including cars, construction equipment, boats, and household items. Each entry provides unprecedented details about buyers, reserve prices, and final sale amounts—a notable development for a nation still grappling with the legacy of two decades of authoritarian rule.

Missing Luxury Vehicles Spark Public Concern

Notably absent from the records are Jammeh’s most visible symbols of extravagance: his collection of luxury vehicles including Rolls-Royces, customized Hummers, Mercedes Benzes, Bentleys, and Range Rovers. The government has offered no explanation about the current status of these vehicles.

“This is an important step—but far from complete,” said an anonymous civil society advocate. “Without accounting for the most valuable assets, public confidence in the process remains limited.”

Background: Jammeh’s Rule and Asset Recovery Efforts

Yahya Jammeh ruled The Gambia from 1994 until 2017, when he was forced into exile after losing an election. Subsequent investigations revealed widespread human rights abuses and massive misappropriation of public funds during his regime.

The current administration under President Adama Barrow has faced mounting pressure to recover stolen assets. While initial efforts were welcomed, critics have consistently criticized the process for lacking transparency.

Public Protests Force Government Action

Tensions escalated recently when activists from Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) staged protests in Banjul, demanding full transparency. The demonstrations followed investigative reports highlighting inconsistencies in the government’s asset recovery records.

In response, the Ministry released its detailed ledger—including names of buyers—marking a shift toward greater accountability. Yet the ongoing mystery surrounding Jammeh’s luxury cars continues to dominate public discourse.

“People demand accountability where it matters most,” noted a political analyst. “That means knowing what happened to the Rolls-Royces.”

The Bigger Picture: Gambia’s Democratic Transition

As The Gambia continues its challenging transition to democracy, the handling of Jammeh’s assets serves as a crucial test of institutional integrity. The unresolved questions about his luxury vehicles symbolize the nation’s broader struggle to reckon with its authoritarian past.

This article summarizes an original report by Kerr Fatou. Read the full story at the source.