University of The Gambia Student’s Union (UTGSU) has threatened to embark on a protest by October in demand for justice in the case of their colleague Kebba Secka who was murdered on July 9, 2019 allegedly by First Class Constable Lamin Trawally.
They described the murder as barbaric, brutal and callous and the least expected from law enforcement officers who are bond to protect lives and properties but instead terminally end the live of a University students without any course.
Amidst widespread condemnation of the killing from the university students and general public, the Gambia Police had since issued a press release to express their remorse over the incident and promised to do everything possible to get to the bottom of the matter.
Reflecting on the issue at a press briefing, Yankuba Manneh, Secretary General, University of The Gambia Student’s Union stated that “it is a very sad moment for us the students of the University of The Gambia Student Union. We are still mourning the brutal and callous murder of Kebba Secka, which sad incident occurred 9th July, 2019 at Palma Rima Beach. As a Union we could not help but only to follow all the due processes and procedures of the laws because we are responsible student union and knowing what protest means we tried to engaged all the relevant authorities to get to the bottom of the case.”
Manneh disclosed that the student body has earlier proposed to stage a peaceful protest last Monday but decided to suspend it in the interest of the peace and stability of the country. He went further to reveal that the Union has already engaged its line Ministry, the Inspector General of Police and Minister of Interior in a bid to amicably solve the issue in the most professional manner.
He went on that the recent protests in Brikama and Serrekunda which has resulted into riot and wanton destruction of properties has warranted a shift in their decision of staging a protest last Monday in order to avoid a replica of what had happened last Wednesday at the metropolitan settlements. He therefore warned that if justice is not done by October 2019 the Union will have no choice than to embark on a peaceful protest.
He however, expressed the Union’s disappointment towards the police in way and manner they handled issues relates to youth matters. He said all what the student body needs is the dispensation of quicker justice for Kebba Secka as well as bringing the perpetrator to book without any delay.
Manneh called the attention of the authorities to what had happened in 2000 and enjoined them to avoid killing of students because it can lead to catastrophic situation that will be hard to control.
He however noted that the interior minister has shown remorse and extends his personal heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, while promising to do everything possible to ensure that justice is serve in Kebba Secka’s case.