By: Kemo Kanyi
Violent protests broke out in Mandinary on Friday after the death of 27-year-old Omar Badjie, who died while in police custody following his arrest.
The incident sparked outrage among villagers, leading to vandalism of Mandinary Police Post, the burning of tyres, and the disruption of traffic flow in the area.
According to the Gambia Police Force, Badjie died during a routine patrol operation. In its statement, police said: “One of the suspects fell during a hot pursuit and was taken to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.” The Force urged the public to exercise restraint and allow the law to take its course.
However, family members strongly disputed the police account. Tida Bojang, stepmother of the deceased, told The Voice that Omar had no known health condition prior to his encounter with the police. She described the police explanation as “a surprise to the entire family.”
“When I was informed that Omar had an altercation with the police and fainted, I went to the hospital, but I did not get any proper explanation. The police claimed they did not beat him, only pushed him. What kind of push kills a healthy young man?” she asked tearfully. Bojang also alleged that officers fired teargas into their family compound after the incident, adding further distress to the grieving household.
Bakary Badjie, the deceased’s uncle, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that Omar had left home in good health on the day of his death.
Tensions escalated further when 19 youths, including minors, were arrested during the Friday unrest. The arrests triggered more protests on Saturday as Mandinary youth marched towards the Banjulinding Police Station to demand their release. Police fired teargas to disperse the protesters, causing chaos in which several people, including bystanders, fainted. The Gambia Red Cross Society provided emergency medical attention to those affected. Authorities later released all 19 detainees.
Muhammed Kanteh, National Assembly Member for the constituency, called for a swift and thorough investigation. “Anyone responsible for Omar Badjie’s untimely demise must be brought to book. The law is protective of every Gambian, and it must be allowed to take its course,” he said.