By Aminata Kuyateh
The Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard), Ida Jeng-Njie, has raised serious concerns over safety and security in the Tourism Development Area (TDA) following a recent attack on visitors.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, DG Njie strongly condemned disturbing videos circulating online showing visitors being attacked, stressing that the Board will not tolerate any act that threatens the safety, security, dignity, and peaceful enjoyment of the tourism environment.
She said the incident has heightened concerns for tourists, residents, and all stakeholders within the TDA.
“The Board strongly condemns any act or behaviour that threatens the safety, security, dignity, or peaceful enjoyment of the tourism environment,” DG Njie said. “Any behaviour that threatens the security and peaceful enjoyment of our tourism areas will not be tolerated.”
The GTBoard, in collaboration with the Tourism Security Unit (TSU), has launched a full investigation to establish the facts and identify those responsible.
Anyone found to have violated the law or breached regulations governing the TDA will face decisive action in accordance with Gambian law, she vowed.
DG Njie called on tourism operators, businesses, residents, and the general public to cooperate with authorities and report all suspicious, unlawful, or threatening behaviour through the appropriate channels.
She assured that the GTBoard and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture will continue to work closely with the TSU and other security agencies to strengthen security and maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all tourists and visitors.
The Director General urged the public to remain calm and responsible while investigations continue, reiterating the Board’s zero-tolerance stance against any act that compromises the safety of tourists, visitors, and the wider tourism community.