Fresh tensions have emerged along the Gambia-Senegal border following reports that Senegalese soldiers allegedly entered the Bullock Military Camp and demolished part of its perimeter fence, prompting calls for the Gambian government to urgently intervene.

The incident, which has generated widespread debate on social media, is alleged to have taken place after Senegalese soldiers claimed that part of the military camp falls within Senegalese territory.

Reports indicate that approximately 200 metres of the fence was demolished using a bulldozer while heavily armed soldiers stood guard.

Videos circulating online appear to show the demolition in progress, with armed soldiers visible around the area. Gambiana has not independently verified the authenticity of the footage or the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Among those reacting strongly was Foni Kansala National Assembly Member Almameh Gibba, who described the reported demolition as a serious national concern and urged the government to seek an immediate diplomatic and legal resolution.

“The Government of The Gambia, under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Adama Barrow, should urgently pursue a lasting diplomatic and legal solution to the recurring border disputes between The Gambia and Senegal,” Gibba said.

He questioned why the reported territorial claim had only surfaced now, arguing that the Bullock Military Camp has existed for many years, including during the administration of former President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh.

“This military camp has existed for many years, including during the administration of former President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh. If there were territorial concerns regarding the camp, many are asking why such claims were not raised by the Senegalese authorities years ago. Why has this issue emerged now?” he asked.

Gibba also expressed concern over reports that Gambian soldiers remained at the scene without intervening while the demolition was taking place.

“It is deeply concerning that Gambian soldiers are reportedly left only to observe while a military installation they have occupied for years is being demolished. This situation also raises important questions about the military cooperation and longstanding bilateral relationship between The Gambia and Senegal,” he said.

The lawmaker further argued that public funds had been invested in constructing and maintaining the fence around the military camp, warning that its reported destruction represents a loss of taxpayers’ money.

“Furthermore, public funds approved by the National Assembly for the fencing and maintenance of this military camp are taxpayers’ money. If the reported demolition has reduced the fence to nothing, then valuable national resources have been lost,” he stated.

Calling for decisive action, Gibba said border disputes should be resolved through dialogue and established legal mechanisms rather than unilateral actions.

“The Government must take a clear and decisive position on the protection of The Gambia’s borders. Territorial disputes should be resolved through established diplomatic and legal mechanisms, not through actions that undermine national infrastructure and security.”

He added: “Our national security and the resources contributed by Gambian taxpayers must never be taken for granted. The Government owes the people a clear explanation of the situation and the steps being taken to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.”

The Gambian government and the Gambia Armed Forces had not publicly commented on the reported incident at the time of publication.

The alleged demolition comes amid longstanding concerns over occasional border disagreements between The Gambia and Senegal, although such matters have traditionally been addressed through diplomatic engagement between the two neighbouring countries.

This remains a developing story, and Gambiana will continue to monitor the situation as more information becomes available.

By Adama Makasuba