Public outcry and renewed attention to the situation of The Gambia’s security sector reform have been triggered by the arrest of demonstrators who were against the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority’s (PURA) decision to enforce a required pricing floor of D50 per gigabyte for mobile data.
Police Superintendent Lamin Sarr’s actions during the protest, which numerous residents characterized as oppressive and at odds with democratic police norms, are the source of the issue. Videos of heated altercations between Sarr, demonstrators, and his lower-ranking officers have been extensively shared on social media, which has stoked criticism.
One film shows Superintendent Sarr giving a junior officer a firm warning to make arrests or face repercussions.
“I really mean it when I say that I don’t want anyone around. He pointed to the officer and yelled, “If you can’t do it, I’ll disperse all of you and post my men.”
Another video shows Sarr ordering activist Killa Ace to be arrested after he told police, “We are lawful,” in response to their questioning.
Discussions over the scope of police power, citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly, and the larger function of security forces in a democracy have all been sparked by the incident. Numerous opponents contend that the episode emphasizes ongoing difficulties in maintaining police professionalism and accountability.
The Gambia has worked to modernize its security system through changes since the nation’s democratic transition. This most recent event, however, has cast doubt on the efficacy of those initiatives, leading to calls for more stringent oversight, openness, and a policing strategy that protects civilian safety and human rights.
