The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has rejected claims that violent deaths in the country have become “normalised” and occur without follow-up or accountability, describing the assertion as misleading.

In a statement issued on 26 December 2025, the GPF said comments attributed to Modou Lamin B. Bah, the National Assembly Member for Banjul North, and reported by The Fatu Network, do not reflect investigative realities, judicial processes or institutional response mechanisms currently in place.

The police acknowledged that isolated violent incidents have occurred in some communities but stressed that such cases are neither routine nor widespread, nor are they treated with silence.

“Where incidents could not be prevented, the Police have succeeded in detecting almost all of the referenced cases, after which appropriate investigative and judicial procedures were undertaken within the confines of the law,” the statement said.

Citing specific cases, the GPF said the suspect in the killing of Saikou Freeman was arrested, charged and remanded at Mile II Prison pending legal advice.

Investigations into the recent killing of Isatou Fatty remain active, with the Brusubi Criminal Investigation Department pursuing several leads.

The police added that the case of Fatoumatta Kargbo has progressed through the courts, with the accused arrested, charged and currently remanded by order of the High Court, where the trial is nearing completion. In the case of Kebba Secka, the investigation was completed within a week, leading to the arrest, arraignment and prosecution of the suspect.

According to the GPF, these cases demonstrate that violent crimes are neither ignored nor allowed to “fade without consequence,” and contradict claims that such incidents occur without follow-up or justice.

While acknowledging that every loss of life is deeply regrettable, the police said national crime statistics do not support claims of a normalised pattern of violent deaths or systemic failure comparable to other jurisdictions in the sub-region.

The GPF warned that suggestions of routine inaction risk undermining public confidence in ongoing investigations and judicial processes, reaffirming its commitment to timely investigations, accountability before the law and transparency with affected families.

The police further called for responsible public commentary and constructive engagement as efforts continue to maintain public safety, strengthen the rule of law and ensure justice is served.