Gambian rapper and activist Killa Ace has accused prison officers of intimidation after his dreadlocks were forcibly cut off while in detention, days after his arrest over protests against high data prices.

Killa Ace, real name Ali Cham, was released on bail along with 21 others following last week’s demonstrations against the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).

It is the second time his trademark locks have been cut in prison, but he said he remains undeterred.

“This is an intimidation tactic meant to silence people like us. But we will continue the fight because my hair grows fast and it will grow again. Gambia is worth it for me,” he told reporters.

He also condemned what he described as colonial-era laws still enforced in Gambian prisons and urged lawmakers to repeal them.

“I believe we must go to the National Assembly to repeal some of these laws,” he said.

By Adama Makasuba