The Gambia Police Force has today announced that the expired documents in circulation will be considered valid until the matter between the state and Semlex is resolved. This is due to the deadlock in negotiations between the government of The Gambia and Semlex regarding the production and issuance of ID cards and drivers’ licenses, which forced Semlex to stop producing these national documents.

The police will exceptionally allow the validity of expired licenses for those who have them and are waiting to renew them. “The police acknowledge the government’s recent press announcement on the temporary suspension of driver’s license issuing,” according to a press release that was released today.

The police emphasized that “The public, especially drivers, guarantee they possess a driver’s license during this period and not to misuse the press release as an excuse for not having a license,” the police advise as a result.

There is one exemption to these interim regulations, which the police will enforce. According to the press release, “It is imperative to stress that operating a motor vehicle without a valid license is still prohibited. Drive carefully to help save lives “The police underscored.