By: Kemo Kanyi
The government of The Gambia has announced that a coroner’s inquest will be immediately instituted to determine the circumstances surrounding the death Omar Badjie.
Badjie was a 27-year-old young man from Mandinary, who died following a police chase on Friday.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Interior said a police patrol team had encountered a group of youths in Mandinary suspected of smoking cannabis. The youths allegedly attempted to flee, prompting a chase. During the pursuit, one of them later identified as Omar Badjie fell to the ground. He was taken to Banjulinding Health Centre and later referred to Kanifing General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Ministry noted that news of Badjie’s death spread quickly, sparking anger in the community. This led to violent scenes in Mandinary, including the vandalism of the village police post and attacks on police personnel, some of whom sustained injuries and required hospitalization.
“The government regrets this unfortunate loss of life and commiserates with the family of the deceased. The community of Mandinary is strongly assured that a coroner’s inquest will be immediately instituted to ascertain the circumstances and cause of death of Omar Badjie,” the statement read.
The Ministry further pledged that the outcome of the inquest and related investigations will be made public, while reaffirming government’s commitment to the rule of law, peace, and security. It also reminded citizens that maintaining national stability is a collective responsibility.
The Gambia Police Force separately extended condolences to Badjie’s family and assured the public that the case would be diligently investigated. “Anyone found wanting will face the full force of the law,” the police said. At the same time, it condemned the violence against officers and the destruction of public property, warning that such acts will not go unaddressed.
The death of Omar Badjie has triggered public outrage and intensified calls for greater accountability in law enforcement.
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