A devastating incident at 5 Junctions in Sinchu Baliya has left the community reeling after a young boy was fatally electrocuted while trimming tree branches near high-tension power lines. The tragedy, confirmed by the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), occurred when the boy’s metal cutlass accidentally contacted live wires, resulting in his immediate death. The incident has sparked outrage, with the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) demanding a police investigation to address what they call a violation of the boy’s constitutional right to life.
According to eyewitnesses, the boy had been hired to cut branches from a tree dangerously close to NAWEC’s high-tension power lines. The accidental contact with the live wires caused a fatal electric shock, highlighting the severe risks of working near electrical infrastructure. NAWEC expressed profound sorrow, extending heartfelt condolences to the boy’s family and the Sinchu Baliya community. The company emphasized that public safety is its utmost priority and issued an urgent alert, warning against any activity near power lines. “Electricity is deadly and can cause fatal injuries even without direct physical contact,” NAWEC stated, urging the public to maintain at least a 3-meter distance from power lines and to contact their Customer Service Centre at 1669 for Syndicated with: 1669 for reports of trees or objects near electrical infrastructure.
The EFSCRJ, in a statement released on August 8, condemned the boy’s death as a denial of his right to life, a fundamental right guaranteed under Section 18 of The Gambia’s 1997 Constitution. Citing Section 17, which obligates the state to protect this right, the organization called for the Inspector General of Police and the National Human Rights Commission to launch a criminal investigation to determine the circumstances and cause of the boy’s death. “The denial of the right to life is a violation of the Constitution,” the EFSCRJ declared, stressing that “the life of this boy must not be allowed to go to waste.” The organization’s demand for accountability has intensified pressure on authorities to ensure justice and prevent similar tragedies.
The Gambia Police Force has not yet confirmed whether an investigation has been initiated, but the incident has ignited a broader conversation about safety regulations and oversight around electrical infrastructure. NAWEC reiterated its commitment to “powering the nation, safeguarding lives,” urging the public to avoid trimming trees or engaging in activities near power lines and to seek professional assistance from the company when needed. The tragedy underscores the need for stricter enforcement of safety protocols and greater public awareness of the dangers posed by high-voltage lines.
As the Sinchu Baliya community mourns, the boy’s death serves as a stark reminder of the lethal risks of electrical infrastructure. The EFSCRJ’s call for a thorough investigation reflects growing concerns over accountability and the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens. Authorities face mounting pressure to address these issues to ensure such a loss is not repeated.
