In our Wednesday's edition, we reported that personnel of the Anti Crime Unit of the Gambia Police Force have launched a well coordinated manhunt which led to the arrest of 17 individuals believed to be part of notorious criminal gang operating in parts of Kombo North.
This arrest is not only a welcome development, but show the tenacity and determination of the Anti Crime Unit of the Gambia Police Force to root out criminality in the country.
It would be recalled that residents of Sinchu Sorie have been taken aback recently with series of coordinated break-ins accompanied by injuries inflicted on victims in the area.
A notorious criminal gang dubbed: ''NEVER MINE' has been accused of orchestrating this coordinated attacks and terrorising people in the area.
The annoying fact is that they have been unlawfully entering homes, committing assaults, causing property damage, and terrorizing residents before fleeing the scene.
The Gambia cannot be a cowboy town. So people behind this act must dance to their tunes. The incident is not only scaring and worrying, but also goes to show how criminal gangs want to turn the country into a cowboy town.
The fast growing rate of criminality in the country is a cause of concern and authorities need to stand firm and uproot all vices that has the tendency to derail our promising democracy.
To this end, we commend all the gallant men and women of Anti Crime Unit for their courage and determination in conducting a raid that led to the arrest of these criminal gang members. This is what service to the nation demands; to act when needed most.
Looking at the age composition of those criminals taken into custody (15 to 69), goes to show how ready and determined the group in their bid to entrench their powers and dominance into other parts of Greater Banjul Area.
We also call on the public to report any suspicious activities in their neighbourhood to the authorities for swift intervention.
We cannot allow these criminal syndicates to run and roam our towns and streets with impunity. They must pay for any act committed. This, we believe would deter others and make our communities more secure and safe for all.
We all have a role to play in making our communities safe. Above all, the security and safety of citizenry should be a priority of all.