The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the recent bandit attack on the Police Intervention Unit Checkpoint at Fass Njaga Choi in which a Police officer was shot and injured.
In a statement signed by Emmanuel Daniel Joof, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) the commission strongly condemns this cowardly act orchestrated by unknown individuals whose motives caused fear and endangered local security.
The statement further stressed that the Police are entrusted with the responsibility to protect lives and properties and any attack on them does not only constitute an unlawful act but also a grave threat to law and order, which is unacceptable in our growing democratic dispensation.
“We are saddened by this tragedy, and we send our thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery to the injured Police officer. The Commission uses this opportunity to urge the Government to expedite the Security Sector Reform processes and also adequately equip our law enforcement officers so that they can execute their functions more efficiently and effectively, and according to law.
The Commission welcomes the swift action of The Gambia Police Force in initiating investigations into the incident. Investigations must be intensified to bring to the book the culpable individual gang members. Meanwhile, we request the Police to strengthen its patrol at all the border communities, especially those communities which have been susceptible to armed robbery,” the statement said.
The commission urged members of the public with information on this matter to cooperate with the police and assist them in their investigation and also encourage the citizenry and residents in The Gambia, particularly those who live in border communities, to always remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the Police without delay.
