At least sixteen prisoners including a woman has today been freed from state central prion, Mile Two,  after the Bob Keita Foundation stepped in to settle their fines.

The prisoners were jailed for unspecified minor crimes. Their release comes as the foundation launched its prison rehabilitation campaign.

The foundation was established by Bubacarr Keita, popularly known as Bob Keita, after his nightmare experience at the state central prison in Banjul. 

Since his release from prison, after he was found not guilty in a rape trial, Mr Keita has become a campaigner for prison reforms and better treatment of inmates. 

Speaking to reporters at a news conference in Banjul today (15 June), Mr Keita said “Thank you Gambia because without your support this won’t be possible. Today I’m glad that 16 young Gambians will reunite with thier families. To my team and my partners I said congratulations to us.” 

He added: “Whatever you see in life there is a purpose and Allah knows the best. I come here because I have a good relationship with the prison officers but the system here is very bad.” 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba