By Omar Bah
A group of concerned Gambians has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to urgently investigate serious allegations of sexual assault in Kombo Berending.
In a formal appeal submitted to the security and justice authorities (seen by The Standard), the group calls for an immediate, independent and impartial investigation into multiple alleged cases, including cases involving minors.
According to the petition, information from sources the group describes as credible alleges that a man identified as 35 year old man, allegedly sexually assaulted a 17-year-old Grade 9 student.
The petitioners state that the alleged victim and her family have limited financial resources and influence, raising concerns that they may be unable to pursue justice without state intervention.
The appeal further states that additional allegations have been received concerning the same individual, including a claim that he allegedly assaulted and impregnated his wife’s sister, with the matter allegedly not resulting in legal action due to claimed family connections and protection from the local Alkalo.
The petitioners stressed that these are allegations that must be independently investigated and not assumed to be true without due process.
The group also cites allegations concerning another man identified as the brother of the first-accused individual, including an allegation involving a 15-year-old girl in the same community.
The petition notes that the allegations have caused fear and serious concern among women and residents of Kombo Berending.
The concerned citizens put forward six demands including; immediate investigation of all credible allegations connected to the individuals named, guarantee that investigations are independent, impartial and free from family, political or community influence, provision of protection and support to alleged victims and witnesses, 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 investigation into claims that local officials may have interfered with, suppressed or obstructed reporting of complaints.
The group says it is aware of at least two alleged victims who are minors and has deliberately withheld their identities to protect them, adding that details can be provided confidentially to investigators.
“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 states.
“We call for a proper investigation, protection of victims, and justice according to the law.”
The petition emphasises presumption of innocence and due process, urging authorities to establish the facts promptly.
Police and justice authorities are yet to publicly respond to the petition at press time.