Jaja Cham, former CEO of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), has been arrested on allegations of assaulting a female witness who had recently testified before the Local Government Commission.

The arrest follows accusations that Cham physically attacked the woman in the procurement unit of the KMC, just one day after she provided testimony about the council’s handling of procurement processes.

A brief statement issued by the Local Government Commission confirmed the arrest, detailing that Cham is accused of interfering with the witness’s testimony by assaulting her. The witness had earlier provided evidence of alleged mismanagement and irregularities in KMC’s procurement activities, which are now under investigation by the Commission.

In footage shared by the Commission, Cham is seen briefly seated under heavy security escort before being led away by officers. The video, which has circulated on social media, shows a tense scene as Cham is escorted out of the premises. Sources suggest that Cham has been remanded in custody as authorities continue their investigation into the incident.

While the nature of the alleged assault has not been fully disclosed, the arrest has raised serious concerns regarding potential interference in an ongoing investigation.

The Commission is currently probing the KMC’s procurement practices amid reports of financial mismanagement and possible corruption within the council.

This incident adds to growing tensions surrounding local government accountability, as Cham’s arrest underscores the deepening scrutiny of KMC’s operations.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba