Police have charged three women in connection with the death of a one-month-old baby girl in Wellingara, which is suspected to be linked to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

According to the Gambia Police Force, the case follows an incident reported on 10 August 2025.

The first accused, Fatou Camara, faces charges under Section 32A of the Women’s (Amendment) Act, 2015 – Prohibition of Female Circumcision – which carries a potential life sentence. She has been remanded in custody by Magistrate Sambou of the Brikama Magistrates’ Court.

The second and third accused, Oumie Sawaneh and Hawa Conteh, are charged under Section 32B – Accomplices to Female Circumcision. Both have been granted bail, as the offence is bailable.

Police reiterated their commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and urged the public to report harmful traditional practices to the nearest station.