Key Takeaways from the IGP’s Emergency Security Briefing

Key Takeaways from the IGP’s Emergency Security Briefing

Suspects in Recent Killings Are in Custody The Inspector General of Police, Seedy Mukhtar Touray, on Thursday gave a detailed account of recent killing cases in The Gambia, outlining police operations, arrests, and ongoing investigations during an emergency press briefing held in Banjul. The briefing, which brought together officials from the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, and members of the press, was convened to update the public on recent security concerns and measures being taken by the police. “I have been tasked by the two Honourable Ministers of Information and my own minister, the Minister of Interior, to come here today to share with the Gambian people, residents of the Gambia, the recent happenings as it relates to alleged murder cases in the country, more especially in the urban areas.” He said the police were providing statistics on recent incidents, the victims involved, and suspects already in custody. “Thereafter, we can invite questions and answers. Thank you,” he added. The IGP said the country was going through a difficult moment following recent killings, but assured that arrests had been made in all cases under investigation. “We are gathered here today to give an account of the security situation in view of the unfortunate alleged murders recently occurring,” he said. “We acknowledge the irreparable loss of valuable lives and commiserate with the affected families.” He added: “We pray that Almighty Allah grants eternal repose to the deceased and gives their loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss.” Touray said although the police could not prevent every incident, efforts were ongoing to strengthen patrols and community engagement. “The Gambia Police Force is doing everything they may be possible to police the streets,” he said. “But in as much as we would love to, it is just not possible for us to be everywhere at every given time.” He listed several recent incidents, including killings in Fajara, Wellingara, Fajikunda near St. Charles Lwanga Church, Manjai Kunda, and Latrikunda. “These are all regrettable deaths that could have been prevented if the owners of the premises took necessary precautionary measures,” he said. The police chief said security operations had been intensified across the country using intelligence-led policing and coordinated patrols. “Our patrols are not wild goose chase operations,” he said. “Cognisant of the resource constraints, we use crime data to inform our deployments.” He explained that joint patrols were conducted in the Kanifing Municipality and West Coast Region over a period in June. “To illustrate this, we conducted 16 by 4 joint patrols in KM and WCR from the 5th to 28 June 2026,” he said. “Our personnel combed the streets of the two most densely populated administrative regions, and we were able to prevent crimes as well as arrest offenders.” He added: “In this third window, 615 arrests were made and several cases are currently before th…

Source: Foroyaa Gambia