Tobaski Sales in jeopardy as Operation Clear the Roads Team storms Brikama

By: Modou Touray

Vendors, who have long been a part of the Brikama Market community, now find themselves in a state of frustration and uncertainty as they are forcibly evicted by the Operation Clear the Roads Team.

The much-anticipated Tobaski Sales, a significant event for both vendors and customers, have commenced this week. However, the absence of the usual roadside vendors has left a void in the market.

Desperate and with their livelihoods at stake, the affected vendors have reached out to the New Global Media, appealing to the authorities to reconsider and allow them to use the public space for the Tobaski Sales.

“During the feast of Koriteh Sales, President Barrow gave us some days to do business, but we are surprised that this time Mr. Manneh and his team are denying us the space,” Ballanto Sora laments.

This reporter witnessed the dismantling of Lamin Ceesay’s wooden canteen, where he spread his second-hand clothes.

The team leader, Mr. Manneh, asked the shop owners to limit themselves to the allocated space.

This morning, the operation stretched from the Brikama Police Station to the health facility and the vicinity of the Brikama Market.

“It’s just less than two weeks to the feast; the government should understand us and allow us to sell. The cost of living is high, and it will be difficult to handle family needs.” Mamie Saidy said.

Mr. Manneh had previously cleared the area, but vendors refused to adhere to the operation.