A group of concerned Gambians has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, requesting an urgent investigation into serious allegations of sexual assault in Kombo Berending. The petition emphasizes the presumption of innocence and due process, urging authorities to establish the facts promptly. "Sexual violence is a grave matter, and every person in The Gambia is entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of family connections, social status, or financial influence," the petition stated. It further called for a proper investigation, protection of victims, and justice according to the law. Police and justice authorities have not publicly responded to the petition at press time.
Grave Allegations Detailed
Information from sources described as credible by the concerned Gambian group alleges that a 35-year-old man sexually assaulted a 17-year-old Grade 9 student. The petition to the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice details this specific claim, which forms a central part of their request for an urgent investigation.
The group further cited allegations concerning another man, identified as the brother of the first-accused individual. These allegations include an incident involving a 15-year-old girl within the same Kombo Berending community. These claims collectively show the nature of the incidents prompting the community's appeal to authorities.
The concerned group stated its awareness of at least two alleged victims who are minors. They affirmed that they have deliberately withheld the identities of these individuals to protect them, emphasizing the sensitive nature of the allegations and the vulnerability of those involved.
Concerns Over Justice and Influence
The petitioning group expressed concern that the alleged victim and her family possess limited financial resources and influence, suggesting this could impede their ability to pursue justice without state intervention. Further allegations against the same individual have been reported, including a claim that he assaulted and impregnated his wife’s sister. This particular matter reportedly did not result in legal action, with sources citing alleged family connections and protection from the local Alkalo as reasons. These allegations have generated significant fear and serious concern among women and other residents within the Kombo Berending community.
Demands for Action and Due Process
The petition calls for an immediate, independent, and impartial investigation into multiple alleged cases, including those involving minors. The petitioners stressed that these are allegations that must be independently investigated and not assumed to be true without due process, stating, "The petition emphasises presumption of innocence and due process, urging authorities to establish the facts promptly." They further emphasized, "Sexual violence is a grave matter, and every person in The Gambia is entitled to equal protection under the law, regardless of family connections, social status, or financial influence."
The concerned citizens put forward six specific demands to the authorities. These include an immediate investigation of all credible allegations connected to the named individuals, a guarantee that investigations are independent, impartial, and free from family, political, or community influence, and the provision of protection and support to alleged victims and witnesses. They also demanded strict protection of the identities and privacy of minor victims, that anyone against whom sufficient evidence is found is dealt with according to Gambian law and due process, and an investigation into claims that local officials may have interfered with, suppressed, or obstructed the reporting of complaints. "We call for a proper investigation, protection of victims, and justice according to the law," the petition stated.