Last time I checked, the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) is not a security agency. So why are they suddenly arming their own people? I saw “Best Sniper” being announced at their 7th Intake Passing Out Ceremony , are we talking about tax officers or trained marksmen now? Something is not adding up.

The ceremony was held at Fajara Barracks, of all places. Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe was there praising the recruits and thanking the Gambia Armed Forces for their partnership. Top awards went to Ousman Kujabi (Overall Best), Maimuna Dumbuya (Best Female & Best Sniper), and Sainabou Samba (Most Disciplined). On paper, that sounds like a proud moment. But  why is a revenue authority giving out “sniper” awards?

This is confusing and honestly a bit worrying. The GRA’s job is to collect taxes, regulate customs, and make sure government revenue doesn’t leak through corruption or smuggling. It’s not supposed to be training sharpshooters. 

Since when does collecting import duty require a sniper scope? If we’re turning tax collectors into paramilitary agents, then what message are we sending to the public? That paying your taxes is no longer a civic duty but a military order?

Holding the event at a military barracks makes it even more suspicious. It blurs the line between civilian institutions and the army. 

Today it’s “Best Sniper” in GRA; tomorrow we might see revenue collectors carrying rifles at the border. And if that happens, the GRA stops being a revenue agency and starts looking like a fiscal militia.

Instead of focusing on modernizing the tax system, using technology, and building public trust, we are investing in combat training. With the economy struggling and corruption eating away at every sector, Gambians need auditors and professionals, not snipers. This could easily lead us down a dangerous path where fear, not trust, drives compliance.

Something is definitely going on here, and the public deserves answers.

Concerned Gambian