By Adama Makasuba
The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service has said its officials were attacked at Jeshwang, as they conducted a patrol within the community. However, the institution has strongly warned ‘culprit individuals’ against such attacks.
According to The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, their service is needed by society, as they cannot do without fire rescue services, while fire outbreak is almost everywhere in whatever they do, adding the institution is set to tackle unwanted fires around the community.
“Good morning, Gambia. The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service is the national emergency response institution mandated to save lives and property in The Gambia. We are your servants 24/7. We are not your enemies. Respect the work we do. Our service is needed by society, but we cannot do without fire and fire is almost everywhere in whatever we do. That’s why this emergency institution is set to tackle unwanted fires around our community,” a message the institute sent.
“In recent times, our Fire Officers were subjected to assault resulting in bodily harm to our staff as well as damaging some parts of the Fire truck,” it said.
“This action happened in Jeshwang in the KMC region. This form of the act is unacceptable and are criminal-related punishment. Anyone who is found assaulting Fire Officer while executing our functions, the law shall take its course upon the culprit, be warned. The Fire truck doesn’t belong to the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, but to the community we serve. This truck is purchased and cleared from the taxpayers’ money,” it added.
“We are calling on everyone to be a law-abiding citizen and not to take the law into your hands. We are your brothers and sisters working day in and day out for the safety and security of our homes and business. We are in the rainy season, therefore let’s conduct routine checks in our homes and business at all times. Try to be a safety officer by yourself, because the lives you save could be your own,” it appealed.