Protesters and Journalists Arrested During Demonstration in The Gambia

Mass Arrests at Arch 22 Protest

A demonstration at Arch 22 in The Gambia turned chaotic as protesters and journalists were arrested by police. The protest, which began around 11:00 a.m., featured banners with messages like “Release the names”, “Return back the assets”, and “Janneh Commission is a scam”.

Video credit to: StarTV – The Gambia

Protesters Divided and Detained

According to reports, the protesters were divided into three groups, each arrested upon arrival. Saibo Camara, spokesperson for GALA, was among the first detained. As officers led him away, Camara protested, stating, “We are assembled at a public place and we have the right to gather because we are citizens of the country.”

Other activists, including Babucarr Keita, Kexx Sanneh, Hakeem Touray, and Ousainou Gambia, were also taken into custody. Police arrested subsequent groups shortly after the first detentions.

Journalists Targeted During Coverage

Journalists covering the event were also confronted. Mattar Jassey of Fatu Network was stopped for filming, while Alieu Ceesay (The Alkamba Times) and Sheriff Conteh (Independent Media) were arrested and taken to police headquarters.

Ceesay reported his phone was confiscated but later returned without charges. The fate of the detained protesters remains unclear as they remain in custody.

Source: The Point Gambia