In the past few months, there have been many reports of murders in the Gambia. The rate of murders is rising exponentially and there seems to be no solution in sight, as yet. The police investigations have not been as successful as expected.
It is worrying that every now and then, we hear of people being murdered in cold blood and then hardly are any of these killers brought to justice. A swift and decisive solution to a murder by the police will go a long way in serving as a deterrent to would-be offenders; and a consolation for the loved ones of the victims.
If a murder is committed and the investigation drags on for long, the victims’ relatives lose hope in ever getting closure of the grief and the perpetrators – and would-be perpetrators – are emboldened. This seems to be the case in the country currently. Something must be done to halt this killing spree which is sending shockwaves to the society.
The police are either ill-equipped to deal with this spate of murders or are not focused enough to solve these problems. The government needs to look into this and seek solutions immediately. Besides, the Executive should address the issue to reassure the general public. It is essential for the Executive to understand that people need to be reassured of the government’s ability and willingness to provide security.
The primary duty of a government is the protection of its citizens.
