Alkamba Times reporter Alieu Ceesay has been released after a brief detention by police while covering a peaceful protest in Banjul organised by Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA).

The protest, which took place without a police permit, was aimed at demanding transparency over the sale of assets linked to former president Yahya Jammeh. It followed an investigative report by The Republic alleging serious irregularities and potential corruption in the asset disposal process.

While filming the protest, Ceesay’s mobile phone was reportedly confiscated by a police officer. According to him, the officer—identified as a chief inspector—ordered a driver to leave the scene with his phone despite being told Ceesay was a member of the press.

“I told him I was from the press,” Ceesay said. “He then ordered the driver to speed off, and I chased them to the police headquarters. When I arrived and asked for my phone, one sergeant ordered his men to detain me.”

His detention sparked swift reactions from Gambian journalists and activists on social media, many of whom condemned the arrest as a violation of press freedom.

Ceesay described his arrest as unjust and a breach of his rights. “I am disappointed. Once I wear this press jacket, I shouldn’t be arrested for doing my job,” he said.

The Gambia Police Force has yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

By Adama Makasuba