Gambia Sees 17% Rise in Reported Rape Cases Amid Slight Drop in Overall Crime

Seedy Mukhtar Touray, Inspector General

By Makutu Manneh

The Gambia Police Force reported a 17 percent increase in reported rape cases in 2025, even as overall crime in the country fell slightly, police officials said on Tuesday.

Inspector General Seedy Mukhtar Touray disclosed the figures during a press briefing, noting that rape cases rose from 46 in 2024 to 54 in 2025, while total reported crimes decreased by roughly 1 percent, from 5,394 to 5,273.

“Elements of rape are very critical. Sometimes these cases involve force, and sometimes they are domestic in nature, but no matter the situation, rape is rape,” Inspector General Touray said.

He outlined measures the police have taken to address sexual violence, including public sensitization campaigns and rigorous prosecution of offenders. According to Touray, the country’s prosecutors secured 3,897 convictions in 2025, including cases of rape.

The police chief also noted a rise in other serious offenses. Arson cases increased from three in 2024 to 14 in 2025, while robberies grew slightly from 60 to 63. In response, the police plan to expand targeted patrols, enhance crime prevention initiatives, and strategically deploy officers in high-risk areas.

Touray said that 1,336 police constables were trained and graduated in 2025 to bolster street presence, with 750 additional recruits planned for 2026. The force also conducted 120 community engagements aimed at educating residents and students on crime prevention.

“This strategic shift to proactive policing accounts for the reduction in some crimes and fosters harmonious and peaceful coexistence,” he said.