A violent protest has erupted in Brufut following the detention of Ousainou Bojang and his sister Amie Bojang, two days after they were acquitted by the High Court of charges related to the 2023 shooting of two police officers.

The demonstration, which began partially on Tuesday, intensified on Wednesday as dozens of people, including members of Gambians Against Looted Assets, took to the streets to demand the immediate release of the siblings.

The state has issued a communique stating its intention to appeal the High Court’s ruling, a move that has been met with widespread condemnation from protesters.

Demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans such as “Respect the court verdict,” vowing to remain in the streets until the Bojangs are released from Mile 2 Central Prison and reunited with their families.

Riot police were deployed at key locations across the Greater Banjul Area, using water cannons and teargas to disperse the crowd.

Social media images showed an elderly man lying on the ground with blood on his forehead, reportedly injured during the unrest, while other protesters rushed to provide aid.

The protest highlights public anger over the government’s decision to challenge the High Court judgment, which acquitted the siblings of multiple charges, including the murder of two police officers and attempted murder of a third.

Authorities have not provided updated figures on arrests or injuries. Observers say the situation reflects tensions between sections of the public, the judiciary, and the state.

The unrest in Brufut continues as both protesters and security forces maintain their presence, with further developments expected.

By Adama Makasuba