The Minister of Interior, Mai Ahmed Fatty has clarified concerns raised over a $48 Million project to establish a Forensic Lab in the Gambia.
Minister Fatty made these remarks at a press conference held at his office which he promised to have every month.
“The Forty Eight (48) Million is an estimate provided by the private developer,” Minister of Interior Mai Ahmed Fatty said.
He added:”The Gambia government has not contributed a single butut in the Forensic Lab project.”
Minister Fatty told journalist that the Lab was funded by a private investor who was not even invited by the government but his company was incorporated in the Gambia. He said the establishment of the Lab will be of great benefit to the country as the Gambia is facing challenges on issues relating to criminal forensics. He added that the forensic science centre will support law enforcement officers to provide data that will assist them in solving crimes.
The Interior Minister said the centre was envisaged not only solving crimes in the Gambia but it would provide service to the rest of the African continent.
“The Gambia is not going to look for funds for the centre,” he asserted.
Minister Fatty said the Gambia is a training partner and will pay the centre for the national services.
Meanwhile, the Minister also talked about the prison reform programs, salary increment for security officers and the rehabilitation of prisoners among other things.
