The Inspector General of Police, Seedy Muctar Touray, has warned that protests staged without the required approval will be dealt with firmly, following recent demonstrations triggered by prolonged electricity disruptions across The Gambia.

Speaking at a press conference at Police Headquarters in Banjul, IGP Touray said the police recognised citizens’ right to express legitimate grievances but insisted that demonstrations must comply with the law.

“Henceforth, any protest staged without due process will be dealt very firmly and very decisively,” Touray said.

He added: “From this very moment, nobody is allowed to protest without an approved permit.”

The police chief said recent gatherings in Banjul and other parts of the country included peaceful demonstrations, but some later developed into unauthorised processions and night gatherings.

He said one candlelight procession involving a significant number of young people, including minors, moved towards State House, prompting security personnel to intervene and disperse the gathering.

Touray stressed that the Constitution protects peaceful assembly and demonstration, but said those rights are subject to lawful limitations necessary to protect public order, national security and the safety and rights of others.

He said the Public Order Act provides a legal framework governing public processions, including their authorisation, conduct, route and timing.

“Anybody that will contravene the established laws and procedures will be met with the required and necessary force,” he warned.

The IGP said the police would, however, exercise professionalism, restraint and proportionality in enforcing the law.

“Our responsibility is not simply to enforce the law. It is to enforce the law professionally, impartially, and humanely,” he said.

Touray said the police would continue to respect legitimate grievances, while urging citizens to express their concerns through lawful and peaceful means.