Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Police in The Gambia has responded to media reports on recent suspected murder cases, clarifying that the incidents, while criminal in nature, were all acts of domestic violence rather than random or gang-related homicides. The statement, issued in reaction to coverage by The Standard, sought to correct public perceptions and highlight the challenges in preventing such crimes through routine policing measures.

Between January 29 and February 1, 2025, four separate cases of alleged murder were recorded in Bansang, Wellingara, Dippa Kunda, and Sinchu Malado. However, the police underscored that these cases all took place within private residences and involved individuals with pre-existing personal relationships.

The incident in Wellingara occurred inside the victim’s house, while in Bansang Sukuru Kunda Allatentu, the case allegedly involved family members.

In Dippa Kunda, a violent dispute between siblings resulted in a fatal outcome, and in Sinchu Malado, a domestic altercation between a husband and wife turned deadly.

The police rejected suggestions that these incidents reflected a surge in general crime or a failure of routine law enforcement tactics such as patrols and checkpoints. They emphasized that no police force in the world, no matter how advanced or well-equipped, can directly intervene in crimes that are conceived, planned, and executed within the privacy of homes.

Domestic violence, by its very nature, happens behind closed doors and often escalates without clear warning signs.

While affirming its responsibility for crime prevention, the GPF called for greater societal involvement in addressing domestic violence, urging families and communities to play a proactive role in preventing disputes from escalating into fatal violence.

The statement also pointed to ongoing initiatives, including a three-week community sensitization program on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and domestic abuse, led by the police’s Community Policing Unit.

The goal of this program is to raise awareness, educate communities on the importance of early reporting, and foster collaboration between the police and the public.

Additionally, the GPF reassured the public that crime rates in The Gambia declined in 2024, as noted by the Inspector General of Police in a recent interview. However, the force acknowledged concerns over reported armed robberies in early 2025 and vowed to intensify its law enforcement efforts.

In closing, the GPF emphasized that while it remains committed to maintaining public safety, addressing domestic violence requires a collective effort from law enforcement, social services, and the broader community. They stressed that prevention begins at home and urged all Gambians to foster peaceful and supportive household environments.