Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Human rights activist Alieu Bah and six youths arrested on Saturday in Lamin following protests over the death of Omar Badjie in Mandinary have been released, following sustained efforts by civil society, government representatives, and local leaders to defuse tensions.
Eyewitnesses have alleged that the first batch of youths detained in connection with the Mandinary protests were subjected to serious police brutality, sustaining injuries during their arrest and detention. These claims have further stoked public anger and fueled calls for accountability.
According to sources on the ground, tensions escalated on Saturday as hundreds of youths rallied in Lamin, burning tires and ransacking police checkpoints along the highway.
In response, the government deployed mediators, including the Presidential Youth Adviser, Lamin K. Saidy, alongside traditional leaders such as the area chief and the alkalolus of Lamin and Mandinary. They pleaded with the youths to end the protest in exchange for the immediate release of their detained peers.
Civil society organizations also played a key role in calming the situation. Team Gom Sa Bopa, led by Ali Cham (popularly known as Killa Ace), together with the group’s lawyer, Assan Martin, provided legal and moral support to the detained youths.
These combined efforts led to the release of all those arrested, including Bah.
Despite the release, the scars of the unrest remain visible along the Lamin NTC area and other parts of the highway. Personnel from the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service were seen extinguishing burning tires and clearing debris from the road on Saturday, as the night began falling.
The police, who remain on standby in Lamin, have urged the public to refrain from unauthorized gatherings and unlawful protests.
“While citizens are encouraged to express their concerns through lawful means, blocking roads and engaging in acts that disturb public order will not be condoned,” the Gambia Police Force said in a statement.
“The public is therefore strongly advised to adhere to the law and avoid any acts that could escalate tensions or result in further confrontations.”
The death of Omar Badjie during a police operation in Mandinary has ignited widespread anger and protests, with calls mounting for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
