This, to some extent, is due to the remote nature and existence of security personnel in some instances in these communities, making it easier for criminal gangs to make best use of the opportunity.
This has cost people in communities as some are robbed of their hard earned resources they spent years to generate.
In yesterday's edition, we published an article in which armed robbers attacked GNPC depot in Farafenni, injuring a police officer.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, 13 January 2025.
It is not yet clear how many attackers were involved and whether they (attackers) were able to get away with any cash or other valuable properties, as information still remains sketchy.
However, reports reaching this medium was that the PIU officers on duty engaged the robbers in exchange in a shootout, resulting in one officer sustaining injuries.
However, this recent episode in this North Bank Region's metropolis is not only appalling, but certainly paints a bad picture of the current security of the country. Also, it further highlights the growing need for all to strengthen security especially in the provinces.
We must commend the government of The Gambia for demonstrating the political will to ensure the security of all in the country.
However, more efforts are still needed to counter crime-related incidents in local communities.
This also reminds us of the need for all to embrace community policing. As a matter of fact, we need to join forces to root out this type of violent armed robberies in our communities.
Armed robbery is a terrible social phenomenon that no one would ever have imagined could rear its ugly head in the country.
It has been a serious problem in the rural Gambia for several years, but due to increased deployment of security personnel has helped address the issue. But it appears this ugly phenomenon is rearing its ugly face again in the North Bank River.
Also, it is important for businesses especially those in the provinces to see a way out especially in ensuring the security of their resources to this end, we remind businesses to be ready to deposit their daily cash with either banks or other financial institutions, rather than keeping them in their houses.
Keeping a lump sum of money to themselves always creates alarm and make them become targets to strike.
It is important that in this current democratic dispensation to note that there is much to enjoy or venture into, rather than engaging in negative undertakings that are considered dangerous by all standing.
Acting in a negative manner that could even cost one’s life as a decent human being leaves much to desire. There are many opportunities for one to grab and utilize in this day and age. Let’s engage in undertakings that are lawful and have the trickle-down efforts to contribute to greater national development.