The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said The Gambia is a country governed by laws and that no one has the right to summarily take another person’s life.
“Law enforcers, like civilians, have fundamental human rights and freedoms guaranteed and protected by the Constitution. These rights, such as the right to life, personal security and liberty, and protection against violence are sacrosanct and should be upheld by all as guaranteed by the 1997 Constitution of the Republic,” the commission said in a statement issued to this medium on Wednesday.
The NHRC described the fatal shootings as unfortunate “as it is cowardly and totally condemnable”.
“The Commission condemns in the strongest terms the deadly attack on the Police Officers. This act is cowardly, reprehensible, and criminal,” the statement read.
The commission said: “The Gambia Police Force and all other security and law enforcement agencies are responsible for the maintenance of public order, peace and security in the country. In the exercise of this national duty, these officers face dangers to their own lives and safety but persevere nonetheless to ensure individuals and properties are safe and protected. On some occasions, they pay the ultimate price with their own lives in carrying out this duty.”
The commission commiserated with the families of the deceased officers and the IGP as it wished the injured officer “a speedy and full recovery”.