They were all shot allegedly by one Ousainou Bojang from Brufut on Tuesday 12 September 2023 at the Sukuta-Jabang traffic light junction. Let’s begin by commending the Security Services for their swift professional action which led to the identification and apprehension of the alleged culprit, Ousainou Bojang.
Mr President, the swift action by the intelligence and security services, leading to the swift arrest and extradition of the culprit from Casamance, Senegal, is most commendable. We must also thank the Senegalese authorities for their cooperation and support in such a major security incident. This is one more justification for the close ties and cooperation between the two countries. This type of incident is very rare in The Gambia, since 27 October 1980 when one Mustapha Danso, a field force constable, assassinated Commander of the Field Force Ekou Mahoney at the Bakau Barracks. Danso was sentenced to death and was killed by a firing squad on 21 September 1981. It is therefore necessary that Government put in place robust security measures to deter criminals and avert such incidents in the country. If that is not done, the security situation in The Gambia will be unsafe both for citizens and for foreign investors.
Mr President, insecurity in a country causes many problems, which include posing a threat to foreign investment and thwarting economic growth. Lives and properties will be unprotected. We must therefore continue to be more vigilant. We must not limit this responsibility to the security apparatus. It is the responsibility of every Gambian (security agent and civilian) to report evidence of sinister activities to the appropriate authorities.
Mr President, considering the above, there is a need for your government to give adequate support and incentives to security officers. They should be well equipped with protective gears and be armed. Furthermore, security personnel should also be given risk allowance and proper up-to-date communication gadgets. In addition, more vehicles should be given to them to enhance regular security patrol missions across the country.
Mr President, it is also wise that effective and efficient free toll numbers are put out to the public to enable them alert or give information to the security apparatus.
Mr President, since you announced a moratorium on death penalty on 19 February 2018 some people have been abusing it and committing crimes leading to death, and this must be addressed immediately.
In conclusion, we advise that the public curtail unguarded speculations surrounding the investigation of the incident or matter.
We should guard against jeopardising the process. Let allow the police to do their job professionally.
Finally, Mr President, regarding the COVID-19 funds, the Auditor-General’s report has revealed that about D200 million could not be accounted for by Government institutions, ministries and departments as well as by some individuals.
It's the duty of the Government, therefore, to take steps to recover the funds unaccounted for.
Good day!