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EFSCRJ Accuses Gambian Police of Human Rights Violations During GALA Anniversary Crackdown
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By CTV Africa
The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice has accused the Gambia Police Force of serious human rights violations during the crackdown on members of Gambians Against Looted Assets during the group’s first anniversary commemoration held between May 8 and 11, 2026.
In a detailed 20-page monitoring report, EFSCRJ alleged that police officers unlawfully denied GALA access to the Westfield Youth Monument despite approval from the Kanifing Municipal Council, before proceeding to arrest activists using what the rights group described as excessive and degrading force.
The report claimed that 14 activists and youths were arrested during the operation, with some detainees allegedly dragged, pushed and forcefully handled by officers. EFSCRJ specifically highlighted the arrest of activist Alieu Bah, also known as “Immortal,” alleging that officers physically carried and threw him into a police vehicle despite him posing no threat.
According to the report, female detainees Kaddy Jadama and Maimuna Bah were handled by male officers and later detained in conditions described as degrading and unsuitable for women. EFSCRJ further alleged that detention cells at Kairaba and Kotu police stations were overcrowded, poorly ventilated and infested with insects, raising concerns about inhumane treatment.
The organization also criticized the deployment of heavily armed Police Intervention Unit officers and the use of face masks during the operation and subsequent court appearances, arguing that such tactics created fear and undermined accountability.
EFSCRJ concluded that the police actions amounted to violations of constitutional rights, democratic policing standards and international human rights obligations. The organization called for the immediate withdrawal of charges against the activists, independent investigations into the police operation and broader reforms within the police force to protect civic freedoms and ensure accountability.
