Tensions Escalate in The Gambia Over Rearrest of Acquitted Siblings.

Tensions Escalate in The Gambia Over Rearrest of Acquitted Siblings

Background of the Case.

In a case that has caught the attention of the entire nation, Ousainou Bojang and his sister, Amie Bojang, found themselves at the center of a legal storm following the fatal shooting of two police officers on 12th September 2023. The incident took place at the Sukuta-Jabang Traffic Lights and became a high-profile criminal case with serious charges leveled against the siblings. Ousainou Bojang faced allegations ranging from murder to terrorism, while Amie was accused of aiding his escape.

High Court Acquittal.

On 30th March 2026, Justice Ebrima Jaiteh of the High Court in Banjul delivered a pivotal judgment, acquitting both siblings. The court cited several reasons for this decision, noting the prosecution's failure to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Key Points from the Judgment:

1. Alibi Not Disproved: Bojang’s consistent and corroborated alibi stated he was at work in Brufut, which the prosecution failed to investigate adequately.
2. No Reliable Link to the Crime Scene: Physical evidence, such as shoes linked to the crime, did not match the accused, undermining the prosecution's case.
3. Confessional Statements Deemed Unsafe: The court found issues with the extrajudicial statements, including lack of mandatory video recording, allegations of coercion, and contradictions.
4. Identity of the Shooter Not Proven: There was no credible identification or forensic evidence linking Bojang to the crime.

Amie Bojang was also acquitted due to the lack of evidence proving the principal offence or her knowledge of any crime.

Public Outrage and Protests.

Despite their acquittal, the siblings were rearrested, sparking significant public outrage. This move was perceived as a challenge to the High Court's decision, leading to demonstrations across the country.

Protests and Civil Society Mobilization.

1. Initial Protests: Spontaneous protests erupted at Westfield on 31st March, with many calling for the siblings' immediate release.
2. GALA's Involvement: The civil society group Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) mobilized further protests, advocating for justice and the upholding of judicial decisions.
3. Youth and Activist Participation: Young people and activists played a vital role in the demonstrations, voicing their demands for justice and transparency.

Government Response and Release.

In response to the rising tension, the Ministry of Justice attempted to justify the re-arrest in a statement on 1st April 2026. However, the cancellation of a planned press conference only intensified public scrutiny and criticism.

Finally, after two days of protests and mounting pressure, the Gambia Police Force announced the release of Ousainou and Amie Bojang from custody, marking a resolution to the immediate crisis but leaving lingering questions about the rule of law and justice in the country.