People especially those that frequent the busy urban markets like Serrekunda, Brikama and even car parks would know what we are talking about. It is such that miscreants are hellbent on duping one and another and think it is a right.
It’s a popular saying that who fells it, knows it. And many commuters would attest to the fact that they are at some point victims of these criminal gangs, who normally operate during closing hours.
It is an issue many believe is propelled by laziness or rising unemployment in the country. Whatever the case, this alarming phenomena needs to be thoroughly checked and addressed as soon as possible.
We need law and order and we must commend The Gambia Police Force and all the other security apparatus for their relentless efforts in stemming the tide of banditry, criminal and other negative vices in the country.
However, the alarming surge in pickpocketing especially in advance to this festive period of Eid Adha is a cause of concern.
It is said that the number of youths loitering and idly disguising at the market areas or even at car parks, disguising to be either drivers or apprentices leaves much to be desired.
Most of this youth hide behind this false pretence in monitoring people to dupe. And most of the times they would operate and get away with it. This needs to be addressed.
The government, should create avenues to help youths harness their skills and make better living. Youth are the cream and backbone of any progressive society. These words are not uttered just for mere fantasy, but for a genuine reason. Any country that fails to invest in its youth, is planning to fail.
With a teeming youthful population, Gambia youth just like most countries in the sub-region are faced with numerous challenges from drug abuse, surge in crime, robberies and other negative vices.
Another sad reality is that our streets are turning into ghettos as youth live in the hardest ways.
Authorities need to do more to positively engage our youth to contribute meaningfully to national development. This will not only contribute to national development, but would also help reduce the much-fancied irregular migration to the West.
As we now fast approach the festive period of Eid Adha, police should be vigilant and clampdown on those found wanting of robbery and other negative vices.
Let’s remember that strengthening law and order is a sacrosanct in any progressive democracy. A handful of unruly youth cannot just take the law into their own hands and operate freely.
So, we call on the police, who are the custodians when it comes to maintaining law and order in the country to stay vigilant. Together, we can make The Gambia the most peaceful country on earth.