Gambiaj.com – (PALELEH, Nianija) – A long-standing land dispute between neighboring families in Paleleh, Nianija, has taken a violent turn, leaving two members of Samba Jallow’s family seriously injured and raising questions about law enforcement intervention.

For over two decades, Samba Jallow and his family have farmed their land in Paleleh. However, a recent claim of ownership by their neighbor, Faraba Jallow, the NPP chairman of the area, has sparked a contentious legal battle.

The matter was taken to court by Samba, and the Hon. Sheriff of The Gambia, Omar Jabang Esq., ruled in his favor. In a letter to Faraba, the Sheriff wrote: “I write to inform you that the property you are currently occupying has been adjudged to be owned by Mr. Samba Jallow.” Faraba was ordered to vacate the land by Monday, July 8, 2024.

Defying the court order, Faraba allegedly sent men to attack Samba and his family. The incident left Cherno Jallow and Samsa Jallow with serious injuries. “They brought the two boys to Faraba, and he physically attacked them with an axe,” said a source.

Following the attack, Faraba was arrested by the Njaw Police. However, his detention was short-lived as Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie allegedly intervened, ordering Faraba’s immediate release. “We wanted to detain Faraba overnight, but we were ordered to release him,” said the station officer in Njaw.

In response to the accusations, Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie issued a statement denying any wrongdoing. He clarified that he had not instructed the police to release Faraba and provided background information on the land dispute. According to Njie, a group tribunal had previously ruled in favor of Faraba Jallow, a decision later reaffirmed by the Sheriff Division. Njie stated that the physical altercation occurred when Cherno Yassin Jallow allegedly violated a restraining order by clearing the disputed land.

The situation remains tense as Samba Jallow and his family are currently denied access to their farm, with Faraba allegedly threatening them with further violence if they return.

Social media has been abuzz with various claims and counterclaims, adding to the complexity of the situation. The community is now looking to the courts for a final resolution, while local leaders call for calm and reconciliation.