Allegations of corruption have surfaced against Assistant Commissioner of Police Almami S. Manga, a senior prosecutor and one of the commissioners of The Gambia’s newly established Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The claims, amplified on social media through screenshots of a D65,000 Wave mobile money transfer from land dispute suspect Tijan Khan, have prompted a detailed public rebuttal from Manga and a sharp call for investigation from civil society group Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ).
In a comprehensive statement released today, Manga categorically denied any wrongdoing, describing the accusations as “false and misleading.” He explained that the transaction was payment for legitimate private legal services—specifically drafting a deed of assignment—that Khan requested to help resolve a long-running land fraud complaint filed against him.
The dispute stems from a complaint by UK-based Gambian Pa Famara Badjie, who alleged Khan sold him land but failed to provide access despite full payment. Manga stated he advised Badjie’s sister, Binta Badjie, to lodge a formal police complaint at headquarters, which was recorded at the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) under reference D/REF:15/13/11/2025 in November 2025. He insisted his role remained facilitative: guiding the complainant through standard procedures, relaying updates from investigators, arranging a site visit to Old Yundum (at his personal expense), and independently forwarding lease documents to the Ministry of Justice for verification in December 2025.
The verification revealed the lease was in the name of Khan’s father, Kebba Khan, and the land had been re-entered by the State since 2003 due to encumbrances. Manga said he communicated these findings and advised on required rectifications (deeds of assignment, taxes, stamp duty), but Khan’s side failed to act decisively.
Later, Khan sought Manga’s services as a qualified lawyer to draft documents for an amicable resolution. Manga accepted in his private professional capacity, with the Wave transfer covering his fee—”like those rendered to many others.” He emphasized no bribe was demanded or suggested in communications, and he disengaged once progress stalled, urging investigators to proceed. The case is now before the Kanifing Magistrates’ Court after Khan missed a refund deadline.
Manga, who previously prosecuted Khan and is familiar with his conduct, rejected suggestions that D65,000 could compromise his integrity. He welcomed any formal complaint or independent probe, offering to step aside temporarily if needed, and attributed the attacks partly to opposition to his ACC nomination.
EFSCRJ, in its own public statement issued the same day, dismissed Manga’s defence and accused him of abuse of office, conflict of interest, and breaching ethical standards. The group cited his admissions of accompanying parties to SIU, joining site visits during an active investigation, acting as an intermediary, and accepting paid work from a suspect he had prosecuted.
It argued that these actions violate Section 222 of the Constitution (which prohibits conflicts of interest and activities casting doubt on impartiality), the Gambia Police Force Code of Conduct, and anti-corruption norms. EFSCRJ said Manga should have avoided involvement entirely, recused himself upon personal connections emerging, refused fees from linked parties, and disclosed everything to superiors.
The organisation called on President Adama Barrow to establish a vetting committee under the Anti-Corruption Act 2023 to investigate and, if warranted, remove Manga from the ACC. It also urged the Inspector General of Police to launch a parallel inquiry into the bribery claims and police conduct. EFSCRJ plans to file formal complaints with authorities.
The controversy casts a shadow over the ACC, established to tackle graft following years of advocacy. Manga’s appointment was confirmed late last year, alongside those of other commissioners.
