By Makutu Manneh
Residents of Mandinary have disputed the Gambia Police Force’s account of the death of 27-year-old Omar Badjie, who police claim collapsed during a chase and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Eyewitnesses from the community allege a far more violent encounter. They insist Omar was severely beaten by police officers, even after he was handcuffed and no longer resisting.
One woman, who requested anonymity, said she saw the incident unfold. She recounted that Omar was apprehended, handcuffed, and dragged by officers when he fell to the ground, complaining that his legs were in pain and that he could not move further. “He was saying, ‘Don’t beat me,’ but the police continued to beat and slap him,” she said.
Omar’s mother, Tida Bojang, expressed disbelief at the police’s version of events. She questioned how a simple “push,” as suggested by police, could lead to her son’s collapse and death.
His uncle, Bakary Badjie, also rejected the police narrative, emphasizing that Omar had been in good health. “He left home healthy. He exercised every morning and never complained of illness,” he noted.
Following news of Omar’s death, youths in Mandinary staged protests, chanting slogans such as “Justice for Omar,” “Who killed Omar?” and “End police brutality.”
In a statement released on September 27, the day after the incident, police said officers on patrol encountered a group of young men suspected of smoking prohibited substances. According to the statement, the group fled, and Omar collapsed while running. He was rushed to Banjulinding Health Centre and later transferred to Kanifing General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police added that an investigation is underway. “The circumstances surrounding the death of Omar Badjie will be thoroughly and transparently investigated, and the findings will be shared with the public,” the statement read.
The sharp contrast between the police account and the residents’ testimonies has fueled calls for clarity, with the community demanding a credible and transparent investigation into Omar Badjie’s death.