The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has denied reports that it has lost access to National Identity Card data, assuring the public that the relevant data remains accessible.
In a statement responding to reports circulating on some media platforms, the department said the allegations stemmed from a court proceeding in which a staff member was allegedly misunderstood while answering questions about identity card verification.
“For clarity, the public is informed that the ID Card servers at the time of the SEMLEX contract remain in the country and that the data is accessible,” the statement said.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to complying with the Access to Information Act, 2021, noting that it had responded to various national and international requests for verification of legal Gambian identity documents, including biometric and machine-readable passports.
The GID urged the public and media organisations to engage the relevant authorities to ensure that information on national identity records is accurate, balanced and based on verifiable facts.
It warned that unfounded claims concerning the management of critical national data could undermine public confidence and create unnecessary concerns.
The department further reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the legal identities of Gambians and foreign nationals within its mandate and protecting the integrity of national identity records.
It said it would continue to discharge its responsibilities in accordance with applicable laws, government policies and its institutional mandate.
The statement was signed by Inspector Ansumana Cham, acting public relations officer of the GID.