Police Investigate Infant Death Allegedly Linked to Female Circumcision in Wuli

By Fatou Sillah

The Gambia Police Force has confirmed that authorities in Basse are investigating the death of a three-week-old baby girl from Baboum Kunda in Wuli District, reportedly connected to female circumcision.

“Police in Basse have reported the tragic death of a 3-week-old baby girl from Boboum Kunda, Wuli District, following complications from an alleged act of female circumcision,” He Said.

In a statement, the police said the infant, accompanied by her mother, Adama Sowe, and grandmother, Metta Wamch, was initially taken to Bajakunda Health Center before being referred to Basse Hospital and later transferred to Bansang Hospital. Despite medical intervention, the child was pronounced dead.

“The mother and grandmother of the deceased are currently in police custody, cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The body of the deceased is preserved at Bansang Hospital mortuary, pending transfer to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul for postmortem examination,” the statement said.

The Gambia Police Force urged the public to adhere to lawful practices and work collectively to protect the lives and well-being of children.