The State Guard Battalion soldiers were posted at Mankamang Kunda, the home village of President Adama Barrow in Jimara District of the Upper River Region (URR). One of the soldiers reportedly died on the spot while the other one died at the Bansang Hospital in the Central River Region (CRR).
The GAF, in a press release, has confirmed the accident, saying: “The Gambia Armed Forces regrets to inform the general public about a Road Traffic Accident which occurred on Thursday 15 August 2024 and involved personnel of the State Guards Battalion posted at Mankamang Kunda.
“The soldiers were travelling on a mission onboard their vehicle SG00060 when it collided with another commercial vehicle and subsequently somersaulted between Bakadaji and Sareh Sambel in the Upper River Region.”
The accident led to the death of two and left two other soldiers injured, presently admitted at the Basse Medical Facility.
“While we pray that Almighty Allah grants the deceased eternal peace, we also wish to pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” the GAF stated
Meanwhile, President Barrow has also reacted to the news on his Facebook page, saying: “I am deeply saddened to hear terrible news from the State Guards Battalion. I offer my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the fallen soldier, Corporal Wattara Lamin, who died in a car accident today. My heartfelt sympathy to those injured in this tragic accident, and I wish them a speedy recovery. As we mourn this tragic loss, I sincerely advise all drivers to be cautious while driving.”
