The menace, that used to be an old phenomenon, is now making news in the country. And from the look of things, there is need for urgent intervention to eradicate it out of the country.
In yesterday's edition, The Gambia Police Force confirmed the occurrence of alleged robberies at Access Bank in Brusubi, Kunkujang Badjie Estate and Njau Sawalo village within two days.
These violent attacks come on the heels of a similar armed robbery at a GNPC depot in Farafenni, injuring a police officer.
According to the police, CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts revealed that three men entered the Access Bank from behind, accessing the banking hall through the main entrance.
The footage shows all three men carrying pistols, although only one of them pulled out a short gun, prompting the bank's security officers to flee and hide. No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported inside the bank. The robbers were seen collecting an unidentified amount of money from the teller's counter before exiting through the same route they entered.
However, an eyewitness reported that the robbers fled in a Benz V-Boot vehicle without a number plate
These armed robberies are not telling well about the country’s peace and security, but also leave much to be desired. Known for its peace, The Gambia is now home to a good number of other nationalities from the sub-region.
It is premature to conclude who are behind these series of armed robberies in the country, but there is need for tighter security across the country.
In as much the country is welcoming people from around the globe, but the country’s security is paramount. To this end, we call on the government to urgently intervene and address the issue.
It is sad that this ugly menace is coming at a time when the country is witnessing record influx of tourists into the country. And so if this issue is not urgently addressed, it would have a devastating impact on the country, as the country also benefits a lot in terms of foreign exchange.
Nowadays, many tourists are heading to countries where they will find peace and security.
These constant attacks especially in urban Gambia, where most of the tourist facilities are situated, leave more questions to answer.
Whatever, security is paramount in any development initiative. For people to enjoy the development they aspire to, there must be effective security in place.
Also, there is a need to install security cameras in some major areas and institutions like Banks and other financial institutions. This will greatly help the investigators whenever they want to investigate cases of interest.
At the moment, there is a need for all to embrace community policing. Communities and people should be ready to share information especially on issues relating to armed robberies.
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, the menace has reduced. But it appears this ugly phenomenon is rearing its ugly face again in various communities in the country.
Let’s engage in undertakings that are lawful and have the trickle-down efforts to contribute to greater national development.