Gambiaj.com (Banjul, The Gambia) – The mysterious disappearance of Ebrima Ceesay, a taxi driver from Wellingara, has taken a tragic turn as police investigations confirmed his death, while the key suspect in the case, Ebou Secka, has escaped from custody.

Ceesay was first reported missing by his family on July 18, 2024. Two days later, on July 20, an unidentified body was discovered in a pond in the swamps of Kampant village, Foni Kansala district.

Unaware of the ongoing missing person case, villagers buried the body in haste. It wasn’t until police intelligence uncovered the burial that authorities exhumed the remains on July 21 and transferred them to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) mortuary for proper identification.

Despite being informed of the discovery, Ceesay’s family initially rejected the possibility that the body was his, based on images circulating on social media.

For months, authorities continued urging the family to verify the remains, and it was only on December 26, 2024—five months after the body was found—that they formally identified the deceased as their missing son.

Ebou Secka Emerges as Key Suspect, Then Escapes Custody

During the investigation, Ebou Secka was identified as a person of interest in Ceesay’s disappearance. After months in hiding, he was finally arrested on October 6, 2024.

At the time, as investigators struggled to confirm Ceesay’s fate—amid the family’s refusal to acknowledge the body at the mortuary—Secka was remanded in custody on a separate robbery charge to prevent illegal detention while inquiries continued.

In a shocking turn of events, on December 19, 2024, Secka escaped from police custody. Authorities have since launched an extensive manhunt for him and have also initiated internal investigations to determine the circumstances of his escape.

Ongoing Investigations and Public Appeal

The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has assured the public of its commitment to justice and transparency in the case. They are actively pursuing all leads to recapture Secka and hold those responsible for Ceesay’s death accountable.

Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation. The GPF has promised to keep the public updated on any significant developments as they work toward ensuring justice for Ebrima Ceesay and his grieving family.