UK sanctions human rights violators including Gambians

Even though certain countries, individuals or organisations are publicly mentioned, The Point has gathered that ‘‘persons who committed murders and other serious violations in The Gambia will not be spared.’’

Accordingly, the UK's government has imposed immediate sanctions on 49 people and organizations across the globe for such abuses including those behind the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the minority Rohingyas in Myanmar.

In addition, the UK, a home to thousands of people who fled persecution of various forms also outlined punitive measures against perpetrators. It uncovered that they will not only be banned from entering the UK but also have their assets frozen. 

Inquiring further, this correspondent was also told that the ‘‘UK and her partners are following with interest, developments at The Gambia’s Truth Commission including the revelations of brutalities and gross violations…there is no doubt that victims deserve full justice and compensation… and perpetrators properly punished to avoid recurrence.

Already, Dominic Raab, the UK Foreign Secretary has reported to Parliament that such a move ‘‘sent a clear message against thugs of despots and henchmen of dictators…as well as stopping those trying to launder their blood – drenched ill-gotten gains’’

Both Germany and France have similar rules or guidelines against human rights abusers and already accused persons have been arrested, sentenced or referred to the appropriate judicial body.

Persistently, the European Court of Human Rights has supported the ‘‘duty to protect life’’ and equally condemned such violations ‘‘wherever and whenever’’ it occurs.