The tragic death of Omar Badjie in Mandinary, allegedly at the hands of police officers, has sparked widespread condemnation from Gambian civil society groups, with Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) and the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) issuing powerful statements demanding accountability, transparency, and justice. The incident, which reportedly involved excessive force over a minor offense, has reignited concerns about systemic police brutality and impunity in The Gambia, prompting calls for urgent reforms and independent investigations.
GALA’s statement expresses deep dismay and outrage over Badjie’s death, which family members claim resulted from severe beatings by police officers. According to GALA, visible injuries on Badjie’s body, particularly around his neck, strongly suggest he was beaten to death. The group visited the victim’s family in Mandinary to offer condolences and gather firsthand accounts, which sharply contradict the official police narrative. The police claim Badjie was found with a single joint of marijuana and died after falling during a pursuit. GALA finds this explanation inadequate and implausible, especially given eyewitness reports of violent beatings before Badjie was taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The organization questions how a minor, non-violent offense like possessing a small amount of cannabis could lead to a fatal outcome in police custody. “Why was such force necessary, if at all? Where is the accountability?” GALA asks, highlighting a broader pattern of police brutality and impunity. They argue that this incident is not isolated but part of a troubling trend that undermines public trust in law enforcement. GALA demands a full, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances of Badjie’s death, the immediate suspension and prosecution of the officers involved, and an autopsy by an independent medical examiner with public disclosure of findings. They also seek clarity on the level of force used and whether medical assistance was provided at the scene. GALA vows to prevent the case from being ignored, urging the public to demand justice peacefully while emphasizing that such brutality must not be tolerated.
Similarly, the EFSCRJ has raised grave concerns about the incident, noting that it involves the irreversible loss of a human life. Their statement references a police report claiming the death occurred during a “hot pursuit” in Mandinary, where the suspect allegedly fell and later died in the hospital. However, EFSCRJ points to disturbing video footage showing a police officer kicking an individual in the stomach during an encounter, raising serious questions about police conduct and adherence to human rights standards. The Centre views this as a breach of professionalism and accountability, further eroding public trust in the Gambia Police Force.
EFSCRJ calls for an urgent, impartial investigation into the circumstances of the youth’s death, with public disclosure of findings and swift action against culpable officers. They also demand that police operations comply with human rights principles, including during arrests and pursuits, and urge engagement with affected communities to rebuild trust and confidence. While advocating for calm and peaceful responses from the public, EFSCRJ strongly advises against violence or vandalism, emphasizing the need for lawful demands for accountability. The Centre pledges to monitor the situation closely and support efforts to ensure justice and police reform.
Both organizations underscore the need for systemic change to address police impunity and protect Gambian citizens from excessive force. The Mandinary incident has galvanized civil society to push for accountability, with GALA and EFSCRJ leading the charge. As the public awaits answers, these groups are resolute in their pursuit of justice for Omar Badjie and an end to police brutality in The Gambia.
