The Gambia, long cherished for its moniker as “The Smiling Coast of Africa,” has recently been shadowed by an unsettling wave of armed robberies, signaling a distressing uptick in insecurity. This disturbing trend threatens not only the peace of our communities but also the very essence of our national identity, which celebrates warmth, hospitality, and safety.
Recent incidents, including the armed robbery at the GNPC depot in Farafenni, highlight a stark reality: criminal elements are becoming bolder, exploiting perceived weaknesses in our security framework. The incident, where a police officer was injured, underscores the urgency for immediate and effective responses from our law enforcement agencies. The remote nature of some communities and the uneven distribution of security personnel have left gaps that criminals are now exploiting with impunity.
Two separate robberies occurred in Brusubi and Kunkujang Badjie Estate today, Wednesday, January 22, 2025, prompting swift action from local law enforcement. The first incident occurred at Access Bank in Brusubi, where an alleged robbery took place between 1:33 PM and 1:35 PM. A second robbery was reported at a Western Union bureau in Kunkujang Badjie Estate, further exacerbating the country’s growing security concerns.
The surge in crime isn’t merely a statistical anomaly but reflects deeper societal and economic issues. With crime rates reportedly increasing since the political transition in 2017, the public’s growing discontent with the government’s security measures is palpable. The statistics are telling; a substantial 76% of respondents in recent surveys have noted a rise or rapid rise in crime, particularly in armed robberies and banditry. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the daily fear and anxiety residents now endure, transforming our once serene streets into caution areas after dark.
Economic factors cannot be ignored. High unemployment, particularly among the youth, alongside widespread poverty, are breeding grounds for crime. When 48% of the population lives below the poverty line, desperation can lead to criminal behavior. The government’s response has been criticized for lacking coordination and effectiveness. Operations like “Zero Crime” have shown some success in urban areas, but the rural Gambia remains largely unprotected.
We must ask ourselves: What steps are being taken to address these root causes? The government’s political will to curb this rising tide of crime must be more than just rhetoric. It must translate into actionable reforms, including Strengthening Security Forces. More than just increasing numbers, there’s a need for better training, equipment, and deployment strategies that cover rural and urban areas alike.
Initiatives to tackle unemployment and poverty should be at the forefront. Youth engagement through education, vocational training, and job creation can divert potential criminals toward productive avenues, and enhancing trust between the police and community members can be pivotal. Community policing initiatives could foster better information sharing and prevent crime at the grassroots level.
We must ensure swift justice to deter crime and reassure the public that the law is on their side. The current system needs urgent reform, in which culprits often go unpunished.
Empowering citizens with knowledge on protecting themselves and their communities and encouraging active civic participation in security discussions can also play a significant role.
The Gambia stands at a crossroads. We can either allow this wave of insecurity to redefine our national narrative or rise with concerted efforts to restore our peace. The government must demonstrate a commitment to security and engage in transparent dialogue with the citizens about its strategies and progress.
Our collective resolve, from policymakers to every citizen, must be to reclaim our streets, safety, and smile. The time for action is now; let’s ensure The Gambia remains a place where smiles, not fears, greet the dawn.
