By: Malanding Darboe & Sandally Sawo
The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has ushered in a new era of policing following the operationalization of its forensics DNA lab over 100 years after it was founded.
The Inspector General of Police, Seedy Mukhtar Touray, told a press conference on Friday that the lab is fully operational, relishing that the development ensures the expeditious resolution of crimes and enhances the investigative capabilities of the police.
The press conference was convened to articulate the GPF’s new strategic direction as well as to give updates on its achievements and ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of persons and properties across the country.
The police chief told reporters that the GPF is steadfastly committed to transforming the force into a more professional and accountable public service institution with respect forhuman rights and the rule of law as some of its core values.
IGP Touray explained that in efforts for the actualization of his vision for the police, the GPF has been implementing several strategic initiatives tailored to ensure communities are safe.These strategies, he went on, included intelligence-led policing, robust day and night crime prevention patrols, continuous training of officers, and the strategic deployment of personnel from the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) and the Anti-Crime Unit (ACU).
IGP Touray explained that his men and women continue to provide armed support, protect VIPs, and implement road safety initiatives as part of GPF’s comprehensive approach to law enforcement.
He reported that major crimes have decreased in the countryfrom 63 cases in the second quarter of 2023 to 46 cases in the second quarter of this year. He attributed this to robust patrols and strong partnerships with stakeholders.
“In terms of road safety, traffic accidents saw a significant reduction from 278 incidents in 2023 to 151 in 2024. This improvement is attributed to the establishment of highway patrols and the presence of checkpoints. One of the landmark achievements during this period was the validation of the GPF Bill 2024, setting the foundation for modern policing standards in the country,” the police boss informed journalists.
