Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambia Police Force has announced the release of all individuals detained in connection with last week’s unrest in Mandinary as part of efforts to restore calm and rebuild trust between law enforcement and the community.
On Saturday, police urged residents and protesters to remain calm, exercise restraint, and cooperate with authorities to return public spaces to normalcy. “Public cooperation is vital in ensuring peace and security for all,” a statement read.
The police also moved to dispel rumours circulating on social media that stations in the protest areas had been torched, clarifying that no police facility has been destroyed.
According to the statement, the incident at the center of the unrest occurred on Friday, September 26, 2025, during routine patrols in Mandinary.
Police said officers encountered a group of young men suspected of smoking prohibited substances, who scattered upon seeing the patrol team. In the process, 27-year-old Omar Badjie collapsed while fleeing.
He was rushed to the Banjulinding Health Centre and later transferred to Kanifing General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Following news of Badjie’s death, youths in Mandinary and surrounding areas launched violent attacks on officers, vandalizing the Mandinary Police Post and assaulting personnel.
Among those injured was PC 9728 Assan Jallow of the Anti-Crime Unit, who sustained serious bodily harm.
Reinforcements from the Police Intervention Unit in Brikama and Kanifing were deployed to contain the unrest, during which roads were blocked and tyres set ablaze. Tear gas was used to disperse violent groups, after which the situation was stabilized.
Twelve police officers were reported injured during the confrontations, and the Mandinary Police Post suffered extensive damage.
Nineteen people were arrested in connection with the disturbances and were initially assisting police with investigations. All have now been released as part of the de-escalation efforts.
The Gambia Police Force extended condolences to the family of the late Omar Badjie and assured the public of a “thorough and transparent investigation” into the circumstances of his death, with findings to be made public.
Police also warned that attacks against officers and the destruction of public property remain serious concerns and will not go unaddressed.
“The youth of Mandinary and all communities across the country are urged to exercise restraint, remain disciplined, and respect the rule of law in the resolution of disputes,” the statement added.
Authorities say the situation in Mandinary is now under control, and investigations into both the death of Omar Badjie and the unrest are ongoing.
