A recruit of the Gambia Armed Forces died Friday after collapsing at the end of a demanding Combat Fitness Test at the GAF Training School in Fajara, the military said.
The unnamed member of Intake 40 completed the 12-kilometre run in full combat gear, including a 15-kilogram pack and helmet, before collapsing. Medical staff at the training school rushed him to Ndemban Clinic in Bakau, where he later died.
Eight other recruits were admitted at the same clinic. A further 23 were taken to Kanifing General Hospital. Half of those at Kanifing have since been discharged; the remainder are stable and under observation by GAF doctors.
Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General Ousman Gomez ordered immediate medical care, medication and support for the injured recruits.
Investigators from the Centre for Disease Control, working with the GAF Directorate of Medical Services and public health officers, are examining the circumstances. Samples have been sent to the National Public Health Laboratory.
The GAF withheld the deceased recruit’s name and expressed condolences to his family, saying prayers were also with those still recovering. The Combat Fitness Test is a standard, physically and mentally arduous requirement of basic military training.
