The Department of Parks and Wildlife director, Momodou Gassama, has been released on police bail following his arrest last Friday. The Gambia Police Force arrested Gassama at his office in the Abuko Nature Reserve on the morning of January 24, 2025, and subsequently took him to Police Headquarters in Banjul for questioning.
No charges have been filed against Gassama as of now. The details and reasons for his arrest have not been disclosed, and police have remained silent despite TAT’s attempts to obtain a statement on the matter.
Speculation has arisen surrounding the arrest, with sources suggesting it may be linked to tensions between Director Gassama and the Minister of Environment, Rohey John Manjang. These sources indicate that the arrest could be a strategic move to apply pressure on Gassama, potentially leading to his removal from his position after some policy disagreements.
However, these claims have not been officially confirmed, and the police have not commented on potential motives or the progress of the investigation.
The Department of Parks and Wildlife has not released a public statement about Gassama’s arrest or the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge, providing further clarity on Director Gassama’s arrest and detention. For now, Gassama remains out on bail while the inquiry is still ongoing.
