Following the recent road accident involving the Gambia U-16 Boys’ and Girls’ National Basketball Teams in Guinea, the government has moved swiftly to ensure the safe return of all players and officials.

In a statement, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, confirmed:

“At the instruction of H.E President Barrow, the Office of the President has hired the services of a private jet to fly home all the members of the team that was involved in the accident in Guinea. The plane, which has already departed Banjul International Airport, will make two inbound flights, bringing home both players and officials.

“A medical team from the Ministry of Health and EFSTH is being assembled at the airport to examine all victims and determine those who require further medical care. Those who don’t will be taken home by officials of the Gambia Basketball Association, who are also on ground.”

No fatalities were reported in the accident, but several team members sustained injuries and are receiving treatment ahead of their evacuation.

By Ebrima KB Sonko