The Minister of Interior, Abdoulie Sanyang, has revealed that The Gambia government, through his ministry, is working towards establishing a law enforcement academy in the country.
Minister Sanyang made these remarks while presiding over the recent inauguration of the newly built model police station in Essau, North Bank Region.
He said the establishment of the academy is essential in providing the required training standards for law enforcement officers in the country.
“Given the peculiar importance of doctrine and training in any professional law enforcement establishment, my government, through the Ministry of Interior, initiated the establishment of a law enforcement academy,” he added.
He indicated that the facility will serve as an incubation ground for law enforcement officers and practitioners.
“It will be built to standard and will provide training for officers at various levels through diploma, graduate, and postgraduate courses, covering all law enforcement disciplines,” he added.
He emphasised that a well-trained law enforcement officer is productive and efficient, and it is through training that they can achieve their reform objectives and the broader goals of crime prevention and detection.
Speaking on a related initiative, the minister added that another critical pillar of the government’s reform agenda is Prison Reform, which includes plans to construct a modern correctional center. He says this marks a significant policy shift from a strictly punitive approach.
“This facility will accommodate inmates in an environment consistent with standards that guarantee human dignity and rights. Continuing education opportunities will be created for juveniles from Grade 7 to Grade 12, while skills development training will be provided for adults,” Minister Sanyang remarked.
He said the project communicates a clear vision from his government to transform the national law enforcement and criminal justice landscape.
He urged the public to support the initiative and security forces in their work, noting that officers are also citizens with rights.
“They deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. We are commanding and we are demanding the respect we deserve,” he stated.
The minister calls for public collaboration in the fight against crime, emphasizing that the police cannot do it alone.
“If good people do not collaborate with the police, the bad boys will certainly win. And a win for the bad boys is trouble for society,” he said.
“On the other hand, I encourage officers to operate with decorum, professionalism, and integrity. We appreciate your work and sacrifice.
“We see you working in the rain and in the dark to serve your people. Your ability, consistency, and concerted sacrifices are a true commitment to duty. Every single one of you has earned my highest respect.”
