It is a bloody Monday in the Gambia, as two people have been confirmed dead, many others seriously injured including personnel of the police intervention unit (PIU), during a sand mining dispute in Faraba Banta, the Freedom Newspaper can authoritatively report. Bakary Kujabi, alias Seffo, and Ebrima Bah died during the incident. Some of the wounded environmentalists were identified as Sainey Sonko, Pa Jammeh, and Sheriffo Touray. Gambian environmentalists had a showdown with the paramilitary officers stationed in Faraba banta this morning. Faraba is situated in Southern Gambia, in the West Coast Region of The Gambia. Villagers there are unhappy with the presence of a sand mining company in the community—called Julakay Engineering and Construction Company. Julakay has been accused of environmental exploitation and degradation. Bakary Kujabi, alias Seffo, and Ebrima Bah died during the incident. Ten PIU officers have been confirmed injured. They have been rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.
According to sources, the month long environmental dispute has gotten bloody. Two environmentalists have died in the hands of the PIU officers stationed in the village. The villagers were killed during the confrontation.
In the meantime, the PIU officers have been overpowered by the villagers. Reports reaching this medium said the army have been alerted to intervene to help restore peace and stability in the village.
Over hundred vehicles were vandalized amid mounting tensions. Faraba remains as a volatile village as we went to press.
The villagers used the traditional “Kankurang” to tackle the armed PIU officers. Fighting is ongoing in Faraba Banta.
The post Gambia: Two Gambian Environmentalists Killed In Faraba Banta; Dozens Others Injured Including PIU Officers, Following Dispute Over Julakay’s Sand Mining In The Village! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.