Gambiaj.com – Banjul, The Gambia – Police orderlies attached to magistrates across the country have been recalled, leaving judicial officers without close protection and raising significant safety concerns. Multiple sources close to the Magistrates’ Association confirmed the withdrawal to The Standard, noting that no explanation has been provided for the decision.

A magistrate, speaking on condition of anonymity to the same source, described the development as troubling. “This move will pose significant safety concerns for magistrates,” the official said, stressing the importance of police orderlies in ensuring the safety of judicial officers, who often preside over sensitive and high-stakes cases.

Police spokesperson Modou Musa Sisawo acknowledged the withdrawal but declined to provide a rationale for the decision. However, a senior police official disclosed to The Standard that the measure is temporary, attributing the recall to an ongoing police recruitment exercise. “Once the recruitment exercise is completed, the magistrates will get back their orderlies,” the source assured.

The situation has sparked apprehension within the judiciary, with calls for swift action to ensure the protection of magistrates as they continue to carry out their duties in the administration of justice.

Source: The Standard Newspaper