By: Isatou Sarr
The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has issued a press release updating the public on the case of Ebrima Ceesay, a taxi driver from Wellingara who was reported missing on July 18, 2024. The case has generated significant public concern, and the police reaffirm their commitment to transparency and accountability in the investigation.
Ebrima Ceesay was reported missing by his family on July 18, 2024. Two days later, on July 20, 2024, a lifeless body was discovered in a pond in Kampant village, Foni Kansala district. Unaware of the missing person report, the local community buried the body, believing it was the most respectful course of action.
Upon learning of the burial, the police acted swiftly but sensitively, exhuming the body on July 21, 2024, and transferred it to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) mortuary for proper identification.
The police informed Ebrima’s family about the discovery and urged them to visit the mortuary for identification. However, Ebrima’s father, Baba Ceesay, initially denied that the body shared on social media was his son.
Despite their emotional distress, the police continued their investigation while encouraging the family to verify the remains. It was not until December 26, 2024—five months later—that the family visited the mortuary and confirmed the body was indeed Ebrima Ceesay, bringing an agonizing chapter to a sorrowful close.
During the investigation, the GPF identified a suspect, Ebou Secka, as a person of interest in Ebrima’s disappearance. After an extensive search, he was finally apprehended on October 6, 2024. However, Secka had already been remanded for a prior robbery charge, ensuring legal proceedings followed due process.
Tragically, on December 19, 2024, Ebou Secka escaped from police custody under unclear circumstances. The GPF has since launched a nationwide manhunt and mobilized all available resources to recapture him and ensure justice prevails.
Additionally, an internal investigation is underway to assess the security lapse that led to his escape.
The GPF assures the public of their unwavering commitment to resolving this case, recapturing the suspect, and addressing internal shortcomings. They urge the public to remain vigilant and report any information that may assist in Secka’s arrest.
As the search continues, Ebrima Ceesay’s family and the nation await justice for his tragic fate.
