The Gambia has seen a notable increase in capital offenses, including murder and rape, according to an insider at the country’s central prison from September 2023 to the present.

In a conversation with Gambiaj.com, a source familiar with the prisons system expressed concern over the rising number of heinous crimes in the country, leading to the arrest of several perpetrators, many of whom are currently under remand awaiting trial, while others are awaiting their cases to be filed in court.

The source disclosed that prisoners in Mile 2 are segregated based on the severity of their crimes, with serious offenders kept in a separate area, taking into account their criminal history. Despite this, some prisoners are remanded together, although their cases differ, with careful consideration given to their case reports.

Regarding the relationship between prisoners and prison officers, the source emphasized a cordial relationship, noting that prisoners have established a leadership structure, akin to a council of elders, to address issues collectively. This structure ensures that grievances are addressed through the appropriate channels, ultimately reaching prison authorities for resolution.

“The prisoners all speak with one voice and support each other in any matter,” the source remarked, highlighting the solidarity among prisoners in the face of challenges within the prison system.

The rise in capital offenses underscores the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of crime in The Gambia and improve the justice system’s efficiency in dealing with such cases.