By: Binta Jaiteh
Residents of Sami District, Central River Region, have warned of possible violent action over what they described as rampant ruminant theft allegedly perpetrated by Senegalese nationals, if the government fails to intervene.
Local cattle farmers accused the Police of neglecting reported cases, describing the situation as a violation of their rights and livelihoods.
Speaking to this reporter, Lamin Keita, Secretary of a local anti-theft organization, said more than 700 ruminants had been stolen in the district over the past two years.
He added that four motorcycles and several farming implements had also been stolen, raising serious concerns among farmers.
“This is a huge loss to us as animal rearers. We depend on livestock to sustain our families. Every year, Senegalese nationals enter the country claiming to search for baobab fruits, but end up stealing our animals. This must stop urgently,” Keita said.
He further complained that police responses to reported cases have been inadequate, alleging that suspects are rarely punished.
“How can people come into a foreign country and steal property without consequences? This should not be allowed,” he added.
Another farmer, Samsideen Faye, said many reported cases are ignored by the authorities, alleging possible collusion with the thieves.
“I personally apprehended a thief, but he was released on bail without further action. We were even told that the Senegalese village involved is known for stealing. If this continues, hundreds of cattle could be lost. This is devastating for us as family providers,” Faye said.
He warned that failure by authorities to act could push residents to take the law into their own hands, potentially leading to violence.
“The government must intervene before the situation escalates,” he cautioned.
Faye also called on the National Assembly Member (NAM) for Sami Constituency to raise the matter in parliament, noting that repeated attempts to engage the lawmaker had failed, although the NAM for Niani Constituency was reportedly aware of the issue.
Meanwhile, Amadou Sowe, President of the anti-theft organization, appealed for urgent government intervention.
“We are law-abiding citizens, but if the situation remains unresolved, affected cattle owners may react in ways that will not be favorable. As an organization committed to protecting livestock, we urge the government to support efforts to combat this problem,” he said.
