#Headlines

Chief Justice orders Coroner’s inquest into death of Omar Badjie

Oct 3, 2025, 12:23 PM

Press release

The Judiciary of The Gambia wishes to inform the media and the general public that, following an application by the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice under the Coroners Act, His Lordship Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow has today ordered the holding of a coroner’s inquest into the death of Omar Badjie, which reportedly occurred in Mandinari, Kombo North, West Coast Region, on 26 September 2025.

His Lordship has further directed that the inquest be conducted by Principal Magistrate Anna O. Mendy at the Brikama Magistrates’ Court.

Further updates will be provided as the process unfolds.

GPF detains 4 officers pending Coroner’s Inquest  

In a significant development following the death of Omar Badjie, the Gambia Police Force (GPF) has confirmed the suspension and detention of four officers directly involved in the pursuit that led to the fatal incident.

The officers were arrested on 28 September 2025 and remain in custody, pending the launch of an independent Coroner’s Inquest by the State.

A postmortem examination was conducted by a certified pathologist in the presence of relevant stakeholders to determine the precise cause of death. Following the examination, the body was released to the family and laid to rest on 1 October 2025.

The GPF has reiterated its commitment to a transparent and impartial investigation, assuring the public that justice will be pursued with diligence. Authorities have emphasised that any individual found culpable will face the full force of the law.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation and legal processes unfold.