The Gambia Police Force has announced a clampdown on “indiscriminate sale” of scrap metals as part of its drive to curb criminal activities in the country.

“This illegal action contravenes the Old Metal Dealers Act No. 7 of 1917 of the Republic of the Gambia,” police said in a statement.

“It is in that regard that Regional Commissioners are urged to immediately direct their Regional Crime Officers and Regional Intelligence Officers to provide information on registered and unregistered scrap metal dealers within their respective regions on or before Monday 29th August, 2022,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, police commissioners are urged to enforce the relevant laws “to sanitise the scrap metal industry”. 

According to the  statement, “this is in line with our efforts to tackle the indiscriminate sale of scrap metals which would ultimately prevent criminality in the trade”, adding “scrap metal dealers, both registered and unregistered, are urged to comply with authorities to ensure the smooth completion of this exercise.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba