By Isatou Sarr
Banjul (Gambia) – Youths in Lamin Mandinaring on Sunday gave the Government of The Gambia and the Gambia Police Force five days to respond to the findings of a coroner’s inquest into the death of late Omar Badjie, who died following an encounter with police on 26 September 2025.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the late Badjie’s family residence, youth leader Ebrahim John said the coroner’s inquest, which began on 9 October 2025, concluded on 20 April 2026. He noted that since the report was released, neither the government nor the police had issued an official response.
John said the youths were concerned by what he described as continued silence from the authorities, despite the findings of the inquest.
He recalled that Omar Badjie died after an encounter with police officers, adding that the Gambia Police Force initially stated that the deceased died during a “hot pursuit,” a claim the youths said had been rejected by the community.
According to John, the coroner’s report established that Badjie suffered a brain injury caused by physical assault allegedly inflicted by police officers.
He also recounted tensions following the incident, including protests in Mandinaring, during which police reportedly used tear gas and rubber bullets. He said 19 youths were arrested and others allegedly beaten during the arrests.
John further referenced a visit by a government delegation to the bereaved family, including officials from the West Coast Region, the Ministry of Interior, and religious leaders. He said the delegation expressed solidarity but did not disclose any financial support reportedly given to the family.
He added that the Minister of Interior had previously assured the youths that the matter would be fully investigated and handled in accordance with the law.
John said the coroner’s inquest had recommended criminal prosecution of officers implicated in the case, but no action had yet been taken.
He outlined the group’s demands, including an acknowledgement and apology from the Inspector General of Police, an apology from the government to the family and community, prosecution of officers named in the report, and their dismissal from the police force.
He said the demands were to be met within five days, stressing that they were based on the recommendations of the inquest.
“These demands are based entirely on the findings of the coroner’s inquest. We are not asking for anything outside the law,” he said.
John also referred to earlier incidents of unrest following Badjie’s death, saying they remained part of the matter and required further attention.
He warned that the youths would take further action if their demands were not met within the stated period.
“Justice will eventually be served for Omar,” he said.