In response to the controversial death of Omar Badjie in police custody, the Gambia Police Force (GPF) has announced the formation of an investigative panel to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident, which sparked violent protests in Lamin Mandinary over the weekend. The move comes amid mounting public outrage and demands for justice, as the community grapples with conflicting accounts of Badjie’s death on September 26, 2025.
In a press release on September 28, the GPF extended condolences to Badjie’s family and acknowledged the widespread concern triggered by the incident. “The Gambia Police Force recognizes the concerns this incident has raised and is committed to ensuring a full, transparent, and credible investigation,” the statement read. The panel will examine the events leading to Badjie’s death, with the four officers involved in the patrol operation already summoned to provide their accounts. The GPF has also called on community members, particularly eyewitnesses, to share information at Banjulunding Police Station, assuring confidentiality and respect for all submissions.
Badjie’s death occurred during a police operation targeting youths allegedly smoking cannabis in Mandinary Village. The GPF’s initial report claimed Badjie “fell during hot pursuit” and was pronounced dead after being rushed to Kanifing General Hospital. However, allegations from local youths, reported by The Alkamba Times, suggest he was beaten to death during his arrest, fueling protests that saw thousands take to the streets, burning tires and vandalizing the Abuko Police post. The GPF’s use of tear gas and pepper spray to control the crowds affected residents, including vulnerable children, prompting intervention by the Gambia Red Cross Society.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) previously called for an urgent, impartial investigation with independent oversight, citing The Gambia’s obligations under the 1997 Constitution and international human rights treaties. The Ministry of Interior also promised a coroner’s inquest, with results to be made public. The GPF’s formation of the investigative panel marks a step toward addressing these demands. However, no medical examination results have been released, leaving questions about the cause of Badjie’s death unanswered.
The GPF urged the public to remain calm and allow due process to proceed, emphasizing that “accountability will be enforced wherever responsibility is established.” The statement reaffirmed the force’s commitment to transparency and professionalism, with updates to be provided as the investigation progresses. However, tensions remain high in Lamin Mandinary, where 19 youths arrested during Friday’s unrest were released on Saturday, yet protests continued along public highways, disrupting movement.
As the investigative panel begins its work, the community awaits clarity on Badjie’s death, described by a source close to him as a “good and genuine person.” The outcome of the investigation will be pivotal in restoring trust in the GPF and addressing calls to end police brutality. For now, Lamin Mandinary remains on edge, with justice hanging in the balance.
