In recent weeks, reports have emerged of young Gambians losing their lives through senseless acts of violence. A murder investigation was launched in Fajara following the death of a young man after an altercation. Public concern has grown as more cases surface on social media and in the news. Also in recent months, daylight robbery attacks that led to loss of lives have been reported. Cases in point are the alleged stabbing to death of a lady at her workplace Heewal Bureau de Change in Brusubi, following a similar incident that took the life another young lady at a bureau de change at Westfield.
Mr President, these deaths are not mere statistics. They are the shattered dreams of promising young people whose lives ended far too soon. They were sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, students and future leaders. Every life lost to violence represents a loss to the nation.
The growing trend of youth violence demands urgent national attention. While law enforcement agencies continue to investigate these crimes, prevention must become a priority. Communities, parents, schools, religious leaders and policymakers must work together to address the root causes of violence, including drug abuse, unemployment, peer pressure, lack of recreational opportunities, weak border controls, land disputes, and declining respect for human life.
One of the immediate steps that can help save lives is strengthening community policing and emergency response systems. Many citizens do not know how to quickly contact the police during emergencies. The Gambia Police Force should widely publicise and promote its emergency telephone numbers and ensure that calls to these numbers are free of charge. In life-threatening situations, every second counts, and no citizen should hesitate to seek help because of call charges.
The police should also be aided to minimise too many protocols, vehicles constraints, and slow response to distressed calls or police alerts.
Essentially, government should invest more resources in law enforcement agencies. Police officers need adequate logistical support to respond swiftly to incidents. This includes providing additional motorbikes for rapid response in congested communities, more patrol vehicles to increase visibility and coverage, and mobile phones to improve communication among officers on duty.
The fight against violent crime cannot be won by the police alone. Citizens must also play their part by reporting suspicious activities, cooperating with law enforcement and discouraging violence within their communities. Young people must be empowered through education, skills development, sport and employment opportunities that offer hope and purpose.
Finally, Mr President, the safety of our youth is the safety of our nation’s future. The recent killings have sent a strong message that urgent action is needed. Gambians deserve to live without fear, and our young people deserve the opportunity to pursue their dreams without becoming victims of violence.
Good day!