At a powerful demonstration for justice, Gambian human rights activist Yahya Sonko delivered a searing condemnation of systemic racism and police brutality targeting Gambian and other African migrants in Germany. Speaking at a rally honoring Lamin Touray, a 46-year-old Gambian migrant fatally shot by police on March 30, 2024, in Nienburg, Sonko called for accountability and an end to the cycle of violence against Black lives.
“Lamin Touray lost his life at the hands of those entrusted to protect him during a moment of vulnerability when he needed compassion,” Sonko declared, highlighting Touray’s death during a mental health crisis. He rejected the police narrative that Touray posed a threat, accusing authorities of perpetuating a system that shields officers while dehumanizing victims. “They killed Lamin Touray, and they tried to kill the truth,” he said, pointing to biased media coverage and inadequate investigations.
Sonko framed Touray’s killing as part of a broader pattern of police violence against Black immigrants in Lower Saxony, citing cases like Aman Alizada (2019), Mamadou Alpha Diallo (2020), and Qosay K. (2021). “How many more Black lives must be taken before they name it for what it is? Structural racism,” he demanded, criticizing the lack of independent probes and the state’s reliance on police-aligned public prosecutors.
Addressing a crowd chanting “No Justice, No Peace,” Sonko expressed fear for Black communities in Germany, where “the police, those who are supposed to protect us, are the ones killing us.” He called for fair trials, transparent investigations, and systemic reforms to ensure accountability. “We are millions, and we are rising,” he rallied, urging solidarity to demand justice for Touray and all victims of police brutality.
The Gambian community, joined by activists and allies, continues to protest across Germany, amplifying the call for change under the banner “Justice for Lamin Touray.” Sonko’s words underscored a resolute message: “Black Lives Matter—not just in words, but in actions.”
