NHRC raises alarm over detention conditions after GALA arrests

By Dawda Baldwh

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed “grave concern” after a fact‑finding visit to Kairaba and Kotu police stations following the arrest of members of Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA).

The detainees were arrested at the Youth Monument in Westfield while marking the group’s first anniversary on 9 May.

Investigators say detainees alleged they were not promptly told why they were arrested and were denied timely access to lawyers, family and information about bail procedures. “If true, such restrictions would undermine fundamental due process guarantees and the right to legal representation,” the NHRC said.

The commission also reported that phones were confiscated and detainees were initially prevented from contacting relatives or legal counsel. It described conditions at both stations as below acceptable human‑rights standards, citing overcrowding, poor ventilation and lighting, unhygienic sanitation, inadequate bedding and infestations of bedbugs and roaches.

The NHRC flagged an allegation that one detainee was held in solitary confinement without explanation and warned that some detainees remained in prolonged pre‑trial detention despite offences reportedly being bailable.

“The prolonged detention of certain detainees without clear justification raises concerns regarding compliance with constitutional safeguards relating to liberty and pre‑trial detention,” the commission said.

The NHRC has called on the Office of the Inspector General of Police to ensure lawful arrests, grant immediate access to lawyers and family, facilitate police bail where applicable, improve detention conditions and hold officers accountable. The commission said it will continue to monitor the situation and engage constructively with the police.