IGP Touray Announces Joint Security Operation Amid Electricity Protests

By Seedy Jobe

The inspector general of police, Seedy Muktarr Touray, on Thursday defended the police response to recent demonstrations over persistent electricity outages and announced a joint security operation aimed at protecting lives, property, and critical national infrastructure.

The announcement came after days of protests over widespread power disruptions. While some demonstrations remained peaceful, others descended into disorder, with protesters burning tires and vandalizing facilities belonging to the National Water and Electricity Company, or NAWEC, as well as the Farato Police Post. Several people were arrested.

Speaking at a news conference at the Police Intervention Unit headquarters in Kanifing, Mr. Touray acknowledged the frustration caused by prolonged power outages and said Gambians had a legitimate right to voice their concerns. But he stressed that protests must remain within the bounds of the law.

“We will respect lawful expression,” he said. “Where the law is violated, we will enforce it without fear or favor.”

Mr. Touray said some recent gatherings in Banjul and elsewhere had been peaceful, while others developed into unauthorized processions. He cited a nighttime candlelight march toward State House that included minors and said the Public Order Act sets out the legal framework governing demonstrations.

The police chief said violence and destruction of property could not be justified as legitimate protest.

He pointed to an attack on the Farato Police Post on Sept. 8, during which detainees were unlawfully released and police property was taken. An 18-year-old suspect was arrested the following day, he said, and officers recovered handcuffs, five mobile phones, and cash believed to be connected to the incident.

Mr. Touray also said NAWEC facilities at Latrikunda Kaw Junction and London Corner had been vandalized. He said 380,000 dalasis was stolen from the Kaw Junction facility, while an unspecified amount was taken from the London Corner office.

In response to the unrest, security officials met at police headquarters in Banjul and agreed to begin a joint operation with other security agencies on Thursday night. Mr. Touray said the operation would include increased patrols, a greater security presence, and intelligence-led monitoring.

He sought to assure the public that the operation was not directed at any political party, group, or community.

“It is a public safety operation designed to preserve peace and protect everyone,” he said.

Mr. Touray said officers had been instructed to act professionally, exercise restraint, and respect human rights while carrying out their duties.

He also said he had ordered the release of some of those arrested, particularly minors and women. Those who remain in custody, he said, would be dealt with through the appropriate legal process.

The police chief appealed to parents, religious leaders, and political figures to help ensure that legitimate public grievances do not escalate into violence or disorder.

He said the police would continue to protect lives and property, safeguard critical infrastructure and enforce the law impartially.