A post-mortem examination took place today at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) on the body of Omar Badjie, whose death has generated conflicting accounts from his family, eyewitnesses, and police authorities.
The procedure was conducted by Dr. Leigh, with Dr. Daffeh present to represent the family, along with their legal counsel, Ayub Johnny Njie from AJ Njie & Associates Law Chambers. The objective was to determine the official cause of death.
The circumstances surrounding Badjie’s death continue to be a subject of dispute. Family members and eyewitnesses report that Badjie was detained and reportedly assaulted by security officers after being discovered with what was characterized as a cannabis joint. The police, in an official statement on their Facebook page, assert that Badjie died after falling during a “hot pursuit” by officers and was subsequently pronounced dead.
The post-mortem process commenced with the official identification of the deceased. Before the examination began, two family members confirmed the identity of the body at the hospital’s morgue.
The examination was observed by various individuals, including family representatives Tumane Badjie (Uncle) and Sarjo Jarju, legal counsel Ayub Johnny Njie, Dr. Daffeh, along with police officers Sub Inspector Babucarr Touray (Serious Crime Unit), Inspector Sainabou Manjang, Cpl. Edrisa Jarju (Police Headquarters), ASP Malang Jarju (CRO), and Cpl. Babou Mbye.
Subsequent forensic analysis, which will encompass toxicology and microscopic examinations, is anticipated to yield conclusive insights regarding the cause of death. This will include considerations of potential trauma, pre-existing conditions, or the presence of substances.
Witnesses were advised that a formal post-mortem report will be compiled and provided to the family, a document that will be essential in any upcoming legal actions.
After the examination, the body was officially released to the family, who have chosen to collect it tomorrow morning for burial. The funeral services will be held in Mandinary at 10:00 a.m.
The Gambian public and Badjie’s family are now anticipating the official post-mortem report to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death.
