The Gambia, a country with a reputation for peace, friendly people and a growing economy, has long been one of the most stable and welcoming countries in West Africa. Hard-working Gambians, from Kartong in the west to Koina in the east, go to work every day to build the country’s progress and social harmony.
The country’s reputation for peace and stability has attracted investors, international development partners, non-governmental organizations and tourists from all over the world. But there is growing concern among citizens that recent reports of alleged criminality and lawlessness threaten to tarnish the country’s longstanding reputation for security and order.
There have been growing concerns from many Gambians over reports that some individuals and groups have been engaged in acts of intimidation, forced evictions and other illegal acts in the name of the government institutions. These have raised questions about the efficacy of oversight and accountability in the country’s security and justice sectors.
One of these alleged attacks was on 16 June 2026 in Farato when the home of Ebrima Jaiteh was broken into in his absence. According to family members and witnesses, household belongings were removed from the property and placed outside. The family claims that the operation was led by a man identified as Alagie Jobe of Bafuloto, who allegedly stated that he was acting on behalf of the Sheriff’s Division.
Witnesses further alleged that members of the Paramilitary Police were present during the incident. However, those affected claim that no eviction warrant or prior notice was presented before the action was carried out.
Observers who witnessed the event described it as a serious violation of due process and raised concerns regarding the protection of citizens’ rights, privacy, and property. The relevant authorities have since been asked questions about the operation, including whether officials in the Sheriff’s Division and the police command structure were aware of the operation and whether it was legally authorized.
Residents in nearby communities have also alleged that similar incidents might have happened involving other families, leading to calls for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Citizens and community leaders are calling on the government, notably the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Justice, to probe these allegations and take appropriate action where wrongdoing is established. They argue that any individual or group found to be exploiting the name of government institutions for personal gain should be held accountable under the law.
“The people of The Gambia should not have to live in fear in their own homes,” one concerned resident stated. “The rule of law must apply equally to everyone.”
As public concern grows, many are calling on authorities to reassure citizens that their rights, safety, and property will be protected, and that any abuses carried out under the guise of official authority will be investigated thoroughly and transparently.
Baba Jaiteh.
United Kingdom.
