By: Dawda M. Jallow
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) – A total of 149 soldiers of the Gambia Armed Forces have completed a two-week intensive training on internal security operations at the Armed Forces Training School, aimed at strengthening professionalism, discipline and civilian protection in security operations.
The programme focused on operational readiness, respect for human rights, public safety and effective conduct in internal security duties.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Major Abdoulie Secka said the training marked an important step in enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of personnel across the armed forces.
He noted that participants were drawn from several units, including the 1 Infantry Battalion at Yundum Barracks, Naval Command, State Guard Battalion, Guards Battalion at Fajara Barracks and Defence Headquarters at Camp Yundum.
According to him, the diverse representation reflected cooperation and shared responsibility in safeguarding national peace and stability.
“The contemporary security environment continues to evolve rapidly, demanding highly trained, disciplined and mentally prepared personnel capable of responding effectively to both conventional and non-conventional threats,” he said.
Major Secka said the training covered a range of operational subjects designed to strengthen competence in internal security operations, including discipline, coordination and tactical awareness.
He stressed that effective security operations require not only physical strength but also sound judgment, emotional resilience and respect for the rule of law.
He urged the graduating soldiers to uphold professionalism, loyalty to constitutional authority and respect for human rights in the execution of their duties.
“As soldiers, the nation looks upon you not only as defenders of territorial integrity, but also as protectors of peace, order and the civilian population,” he said.
Also speaking, General Yahya Drammeh described the graduation as a significant milestone for the armed forces.
He said the course was designed to equip personnel with the skills needed to address modern internal security challenges, particularly in areas relating to public safety, civilian protection and professional conduct.
General Drammeh noted that contemporary security operations increasingly require restraint, sound judgment and professionalism in addition to strength and discipline.
He said the training also prepared personnel to manage internal conflicts, maintain law and order, respond to crimes and handle crisis situations with minimal use of force.
The programme further included modules on negotiation and communication techniques, with emphasis on dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution.
He added that the ability to de-escalate tensions peacefully remains a key hallmark of a disciplined and professional security force.
General Drammeh said the training reflects the Gambia Armed Forces’ continued commitment to professionalism, national security and the protection of citizens.
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