The Gambia Police Force has warned against an announced protest at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) headquarters on Friday, 22 August 2025, stressing that no permit has been granted.

In a statement, police said they have noted with concern online messages calling for the demonstration, which is being organized by the activist group Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA).

“The public is reminded that any individual or group found organizing or participating in unauthorized protests will face the full force of the law,” the statement read.

Police emphasized that no request has been received to stage such a protest and underscored that demonstrations will not be allowed without following due process.

The planned protest comes in response to PURA’s controversial decision to set a data floor of D50 per megabyte. GALA has urged citizens to “make it your business to occupy PURA tomorrow,” citing public dissatisfaction with the move.

PURA has defended the measure, arguing that it is designed to protect consumers from exploitative pricing and ensure fair competition among telecommunications companies.

However, many Gambians have expressed anger, describing the decision as unnecessary and costly, with critics saying it will worsen the burden on ordinary citizens.