The recent incidents involving officers of the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) have raised serious concerns about police brutality and professionalism.
We strongly condemn the unprofessional attitude displayed by some PIU officers, particularly the assaults and use of tear gas on innocent women, children, and minors. The public statements released by the Police
focus on alleged
“property damage”
and “looting,’ but
remained silent on the
most important fact that a young Gambian, Omar Badjie, lost his life at the hands of Police Officers.
This narrative is the painful reality of our deteriorating system of the protection of property above the protection of life.
This has raised Key Concerns as;
The excessive use of Force, tear gas and physical assault on civilians, including vulnerable groups like women and children, this is unacceptable and seriously violates human rights standards. The
Lack of Accountability as the actions demonstrated by the PIU lacks accountability and a disregard for the rule of law, undermining public trust in law enforcement institutions. The
Impact of such actions on the Community can have long-lasting effects on individuals, communities, and society as a whole, perpetuating cycles of violence and mistrust.
Therefore the CoPG demands;
Immediate and transparent investigation into these incidents and hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure justice is served.
Police Reforms with reference to the security sector reforms to ensure security officers undergo training and reform to prioritize de-escalation techniques, human rights, and community policing.
Ensuring Law enforcement agencies prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians, particularly vulnerable groups like women, children, and minors.
The CoPG urges the authorities to take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure that law enforcement agencies operate within the bounds of the law and with respect for human rights. We also call on civil society organizations, human rights groups, and the international community to support efforts to promote police accountability and reform as defined in the 2020 Draft Constitution which the Coalition of Progressive Gambians still regards as the constitution that can effect a credible system change by ensuring all the independent institutions including the Gambia Police Force operate with absolute independence.
May Allah (SWT) grant
◦ Omar Badjie Jannah
Justice for Omar
Badjie!
Coalition of
Progressive Gambians
(CoPG)
Email: gambiacoalition475@gmail.com
