Lands minister Hamat Bah has suspended Jeshwang and Manduar alkalos over alleged illegal land sales.

A statement signed by government spokesman said: “Their suspension follows damning revelations of abuse and misuse of Government and Community designated lands covering the proposed bypass that stretches from Sting Corner to Abuko in Kombo St. Mary. 

“Similar reports alleged, that the Alkalo of Jeshwang was also involved in illegal land transaction within the Tambi Wetland.

“Equally, the Ministry of Lands is gravely concerned about recent developments regarding alleged illegal land sales and transactions within the Koto Bali Community Forest in Manduar, Brikama South, West Coast Region. 

“In light of these troubling revelations, the Lands Minister will immediately constitute a Taskforce to thoroughly investigate these worrisome allegations of abuse of Government and Community lands.”

The statement also added that new alkalos will be appointed in the two communities pending the outcome of the government investigation.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba