The Community Policing Unit of The Gambia Police Force, in collaboration with the Human Rights and Professional Standards Unit and the Policy Planning and Coordination Unit, held a community engagement program in Batokunku on Sunday, 27th July 2025, focusing on strengthening community–police relations.
Led by Superintendent of Police Mariama Jallow Badjie, the team engaged the community on various aspects of community policing, its significance, and the challenges it faces.
Following formal introductions by Inspector Gaye, ASP Malang Keita of the Policy Planning and Coordination Unit introduced counterparts from Estonia, who highlighted their “reflector initiative” for the children of Batokunku. Estonian police officer Carlos, stationed in The Gambia and actively involved in community sensitization, explained the importance of reflectors for road users and students, especially at night, emphasizing that they can be seen from up to 130 meters away.
Corporal Foday Nyassi delivered an insightful presentation on the meaning, importance, and challenges of community policing. He stressed the role of traditional authorities in bridging the gap between the police and the community, fostering cooperation, and promoting teamwork. He further emphasized the value of proactive crime prevention over reactive interventions.
ASP Ya Jarbou Kanyi of the Human Rights and Professional Standards Unit outlined her office’s role in the ongoing transformation of the Gambia Police Force, particularly in advancing transparency and accountability. She underscored the importance of creating a just policing environment that upholds citizens’ rights.
A question-and-answer session addressed key community concerns, including:
1. Lack of official communication channels for police officers
2. Unprofessional conduct in effecting arrests and related duties
3. Calls for traffic reflectors at speed bumps for better visibility
The Alkalo of Batokunku, Ba Alagie Jerreh Jatta, closed the session by thanking the police team and stressing the importance of outreach and radio programs in promoting community policing. He encouraged targeting youth groups for constructive discussions to prevent crime, noting that every patriotic citizen has a role to play in supporting the police.
