By Ebrima Mbaye
The Community Policing Students’ Association (CoPSA) of the University of Education, The Gambia, has commended the Gambia Police Force (GPF) for its professional and peaceful management of the Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) protest on July 23, 2025. The demonstration, which saw dozens of youth activists march from Ice Man Junction in Kanifing to the Youth Monument at Westfield, called for greater accountability in recovering looted public assets.
In a statement issued by CoPSA President Kutubo Sanneh, the association lauded the GPF for its restraint, calm, and operational discipline during the event. “The police showed great calm, restraint, and skill during the protest, as well as the public’s reception and obedience throughout the exercise,” the statement read. The group specifically highlighted the leadership of Inspector General of Police Seedy Muctar Touray and Assistant Inspector General of Police Operations Pateh Jallow, crediting them for ensuring public safety and order.
The GPF’s handling of the July 23 protest stands in stark contrast to a similar GALA demonstration in May 2025, where 27 youth protesters were arrested and detained after authorities deemed the protest “unauthorized.” That incident drew widespread criticism from civil society organizations and human rights activists, who accused the police of excessive force and arbitrary arrests. Observers now view the recent protest as a potential turning point, signaling a shift toward more community-centered policing in The Gambia.
“This event shows how important it is for the police and the community to have a good relationship,” Sanneh said. “Respect, understanding, and collaboration between law enforcement and the public are key to a safe and peaceful society,” CoPSA emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue between law enforcement and youth-led civil movements to maintain this positive trajectory.
The GALA movement, which has gained momentum in recent months, continues to demand transparency in the government’s efforts to recover assets looted during the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh. The group’s protests have spotlighted concerns over how seized assets are managed, pushing for accountability and justice.
CoPSA’s statement called for sustained collaboration between the police and the public, particularly with youth activists, to ensure the peaceful conduct of future demonstrations. “Let’s keep working together to build this connection,” the statement concluded, expressing hope that the July 23 protest sets a new standard for policing public demonstrations.
As GALA plans further actions to press its demands, stakeholders are optimistic that the cooperative tone of the latest protest will become a model for future engagements. The GPF’s professional conduct has sparked hope for stronger community-police relations, fostering a safer environment for civic expression in The Gambia.
