By Lamin Njie
The Gambia Police Force Wednesday evening called for calm amid fresh fears of pandemonium in Serrekunda.
Mass protests broke out of Serrekunda Wednesday afternoon after news of the death of 33-year-old businessman Ousman Darboe. Darboe is believed to have died as a result of torture allegedly meted out to him by the police – and a procession of mainly angry youths congregated at the Serekunda police station and Police Anti-Crime Unit in Bijilo respectively to protest Darboe’s death. The protests continued late Wednesday.
The police in a statement said they were renewing their call for calm.
The statement signed by police spokesman Lamin Njie said: “Following several acts of vandalism, attacks on the Police and destruction of properties by protesters, the Office of the IGP is renewing its call for calm and restraint.
“Several vehicles of the Police have been damaged, Police officers injured and an Arson attack on the home of the Commander of the Anti Crime Unit. In which incident, his house was vandalized and properties looted.
“In view of the above, the Inspector General’s Office is calling on the public to maintain peace and refrain from gathering around Police Stations, Markets, Area Council premises and Security Installations.
“Personnel of the security services will conduct vigorous patrols and checks in order to ensure safety and security of the public. The cooperation of the general public is highly solicited.”
