“Crime is decreasing in The Gambia,” the IGP said, noting the figures are based on empirical evidence from police reports nationwide.
Touray acknowledged the spate of recent murders and extended condolences to bereaved families. He said all suspects linked to the cases have been arrested and will be prosecuted.
“We acknowledge the irreparable loss of lives and commiserate with the affected families. All alleged murderers have been arrested and will be arraigned,” he stated.
Responding to criticism of police prevention, Touray said officers cannot be “everywhere at every given time.” Many recent killings, he noted, occurred in private compounds, bars, restaurants, and mechanic garages following sudden disputes. He urged owners of such venues to screen patrons for weapons and employ security personnel.
The IGP highlighted joint security patrols in Kanifing Municipality and the West Coast Region between June 5-28, which led to 615 arrests for various offenses. The operations involved the Police Intervention Unit, Gambia Armed Forces, Immigration, Prisons, DLEAG, Fire Services, and SIS.
On concerns about fuel shortages grounding patrol vehicles, Touray said available resources are deployed strategically to crime hotspots. “If there is any incident attributable to lack of police presence, I will be the first to admit it and apologize,” he added.
Touray dismissed claims that foreigners are behind most murders. Investigations show only some suspects are non-Gambians, and most cases stem from personal disputes, not organized crime. He cited a case where a tenant dispute over a satellite dish allegedly ended in a fatal stabbing.
He urged the public to report suspicious activity promptly, saying crime prevention is a collective responsibility. The Gambia, he added, remains among Africa’s most peaceful countries according to the Global Peace Index.
