By Makutu Manneh
The inspector general of police, Seedy Mukhtar Touray, said on Tuesday that limited mobility and a lack of digital infrastructure continue to hinder the effectiveness of the Gambia Police Force, underscoring persistent resource constraints facing the institution.
Speaking at a news conference at police headquarters in Banjul, Mr. Touray described mobility as a longstanding challenge across public institutions, noting that scarce resources often slow response times in a field where speed is essential.
“We continue to appeal to the government to prioritize police operations,” he said, adding that timely intervention remains central to effective policing.
Mr. Touray also pointed to the force’s reliance on paper-based systems as a significant obstacle to efficiency. Transitioning to digital record-keeping and workflow systems, he said, would streamline operations while reducing costs over time.
The police chief highlighted additional logistical strains, including shortages in basic supplies such as uniforms. Although each officer received at least two pairs last year, he said more funding is needed to sustain that standard, particularly given the country’s tropical climate.
“Because of humidity and dust, officers need to wash their uniforms regularly to appear neat and presentable on duty. Therefore, every officer needs at least two pairs of uniforms that they could use on alternate days. The government has competing priorities, but we continue to appeal for consideration in this regard.”
Infrastructure remains another area of concern. Mr. Touray said that 36 police stations are currently housed in rented properties, a situation he suggested limits the force’s ability to provide consistent and reliable services.
While the government has expressed a commitment to expanding security services nationwide, he said the force requires purpose-built facilities to meet those goals effectively.
Mr. Touray noted that the police are securing land for future construction of model stations designed to meet human rights standards, but acknowledged that such plans remain contingent on the availability of funding.
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