Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Individuals arrested in connection with an unauthorized protest organized by a group known as Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) are in the process of being released, the Gambia Police Force (GPF) announced today.

According to a police notice, administrative procedures for the release of the detainees are currently underway and expected to be completed shortly. The arrests were made after the protestors proceeded with their demonstration despite their permit request being officially denied by the Office of the Inspector General of Police.

While the GPF acknowledged the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the statement emphasized that all such activities must adhere strictly to the laws of The Gambia.

The police force further warned that any future attempts to stage protests without proper authorization will be dealt with according to the law.

The group, GALA, which identifies itself as Gambians Against Looted Assets, has been increasingly vocal in recent days, advocating for greater transparency and accountability regarding the recovery of assets allegedly looted during the previous administration.

Their activities have included online campaigns and public statements calling for more decisive action from the government on asset recovery.

This recent attempt to stage a physical protest underscores the group’s determination to bring their concerns to the forefront.

However, the denial of their permit application by the Inspector General of Police set the stage for more youths mobilization as, in addition to the arrest of 27 people, the specific reasons for the permit denial were not disclosed in the police notice.

It remains to be seen whether GALA will attempt to organize future protests and how they will engage with the authorities to ensure compliance with the legal requirements for public assembly.

The ongoing tension underscores the citizens’ determination to exercise their rights to express their grievances through peaceful protest.

The latest processing for the release of the detainees could be interpreted as an attempt by the GPF to de-escalate the situation.