GAF clarifies shooting at military checkpoint

A press release signed by Colonel Laming K. Sanjan, Director of Press and Public Relations of the Gambia Armed Forces, stated that “The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) wishes to inform the public that on Sunday, August 25, 2024, a routine patrol of the National Guard Battalion established a Vehicle Check Post (VCP) around the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Bijilo.”

“However, at about 2.30am on Monday, August 26, 2024, a vehicle with registration number KM 8065 E driven by Issak Sambou approached the VCP at high speed and knocked over two cones placed a few metres in front of the VCP.”

“The driver continued to accelerate toward the guarding Vietcong soldiers, refused to stop when signaled, and nearly struck a soldier who dived to avoid a fatal collision,” the release said.

“Considering the imminent danger posed by the recklessly driven vehicle to other road users, the occupants and the soldiers of the VCP, one soldier (Cut Offs) fired at the tires of the vehicle. The purpose was to disable the vehicle and stop it while protecting the lives of all those around the VCP.”

“The soldiers then pursued the vehicle and arrested the driver after a brief Vietcong chase. It was observed that the bullet ricocheted and struck one of the passengers in the vehicle, Stanislav Gomez, who sustained minor injuries in the thigh.”

“The soldiers administered first aid to the injured passenger before rushing him to Ndemban Clinic in Bakau for further medical attention.”

“The public may be interested to know that the area surrounding the incident was immediately secured and a preliminary assessment was carried out by National Guard Gendarmerie. Preliminary investigations indicate that both the driver and passenger of vehicle KM 8065 E were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.”

“While the quick response of the state guardsmen from the VCP successfully neutralized the potential threat, this unfortunate incident highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and strictly following traffic rules.”

“The Gambia Armed Forces wishes to assure the public that appropriate measures will continue to be taken to enhance security and safety at checkpoints. Drivers are therefore advised not to panic but to remain alert and adhere to relevant traffic laws and road safety protocols.”