By: Adama Makasuba
Sheriff Gomez, Gambian ex-army adjutant has told the Truth Commission that ex-lieutenant Edward Singhateh released a burst of round over his head in 1994 while he was detained at the Yundum Barrack, following Singhateh’s request for the armored key from him.
“Edward Singhateh released a burst of round over my head,” Mr Gomez said in tears as he testified before the Truth, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission at the Dunes hotel.
On July 22 1994, five military personnel launched a coup that brought an end to the 30 year rule of ex-president Dawda Kairaba Jawara.
However, as the ex-military officer testified before the truth commission, explained that rumors were making wave at the time but he wasn’t in any idea of believing that the occurred coup would be effective.
He added: “I didn’t believe whether the coup was possible at the time. I didn’t see any temperament in the army.”
Mr. Gomez further explained to the Truth Commission how he was arrested and detained with his fellow security men at the time, saying he was arrested by a group of soldiers led by ex-Lieutenant Edward Singhateh as he entered the Yundum Barracks, describing it as an ambush.
This he noted was followed by the confiscation of the armored keys from and he was detained at the barrack for two days before he was transferred to the central Mile II prison in Banjul.
At the Mile II prison, the ex-military officer described the situation as horrible and sad; adding that he and many of his fellow officers were subjected to torture.
Mr. Gomez, who also served as minister of youth and sports under ex-president Yahya Jammeh two decade rule, said that the junta used to kicked them (detained soldiers) with their boots and guns.
He also told the commission that while he was detained at the Mile II prison, ex-lieutenant Edward Singhateh again told him that: “last time I shot and missed but this time I will not miss”, adding at Mile II, I know Edward was drunk when he approached me.”
Meanwhile, testimonies continues on Monday as the Truth, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission is mandated to investigate all human rights crimes and atrocities occurred under ex-president Jammeh’s 22 year rule.
