The Edward Francis Small Center for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has formally demanded transparency from the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) regarding a disturbing incident involving KMC Municipal Police on March 24, 2024. The incident, which involved the arrest of Kumba Secka and her child on suspicion of theft at Serre Kunda market, gained widespread attention after a video surfaced on social media showing the search and interrogation of Ms. Secka. The footage, widely circulated, sparked public outrage over what many described as the mistreatment of the mother and her child by the police.
In response to the public backlash, KMC Police announced on April 21, 2024, that they would investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable. However, over two months later, no updates on the investigation’s progress or findings have been released, prompting concern from the EFSCRJ about KMC’s commitment to justice and human rights.
In a statement released today, the EFSCRJ expressed alarm over what they describe as a violation of Ms. Secka’s and her child’s rights to dignity and privacy.
While acknowledging that Ms. Secka must face accountability for any proven offenses, the rights group emphasized that the rule of law demands respect for fundamental human rights. The video evidence, they argue, suggests police actions that may amount to mistreatment, further eroding public trust in law enforcement.
To address these concerns, the EFSCRJ has submitted a formal letter to KMC’s Chief Executive Officer, requesting two critical documents: the Final Investigative Report on the March 2024 incident and the Resolution of the General Council on the matter. These requests are grounded in the Access to Information Act 2021, which grants citizens the right to access information from public bodies and mandates a response within 21 days.
The EFSCRJ’s statement underscores the importance of transparency and accountability as essential pillars for protecting citizens’ rights. The group has declared 2025 the “Year of Transparency and Accountability,” urging KMC to fulfill its legal and ethical obligations by promptly disclosing the requested information.
The continued silence from KMC, they warn, risks deepening public distrust in institutions meant to serve and protect the public.
The rights group remains steadfast in its mission to hold public officials accountable and ensure justice for Ms. Secka and her child. “The public deserves answers,” the EFSCRJ stated, calling on stakeholders to support their demand for transparency. They also emphasized the need to prevent similar incidents in the future, advocating for systemic reforms to uphold the dignity and rights of all citizens.
As the 21-day deadline for KMC’s response approaches, the EFSCRJ’s demand has put a spotlight on the broader issue of police conduct and institutional accountability in The Gambia. The outcome of this request could set a precedent for how public bodies address allegations of human rights violations, with the EFSCRJ vowing to continue its advocacy until justice is served.
