The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has condemned what it described as irresponsible behaviour by a group of young men in Nema Kunku who clashed with officers after refusing to stop playing football in a public space.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the police said the group ignored repeated warnings to desist from actions that obstruct and endanger public safety.

The GPF also criticised The Gambia Talents Promotion TV for conducting interviews on the incident in a way that it said appeared to portray police officers as being at fault for enforcing the law.

“The GPF reminds all media institutions of their civic duty to report responsibly and to seek clarification from official sources before publishing or broadcasting stories that may mislead the public or undermine law enforcement efforts,” the statement said.

The police further emphasised that maintaining law and order is the foundation of a peaceful society and that lawful instructions from officers must be respected.

The statement urged media outlets to cooperate and coordinate with the police on matters relating to public security in order to promote accurate information and responsible journalism.