Protests erupt in Gambia after re-arrest of acquitted siblings

Tensions flared in Brufut as police used tear gas and water cannon to disperse protesters demanding justice for two siblings whose brief re-arrest sparked public outrage.

Dozens took to the streets after Ousainou Bojang and Amie Bojang were detained again just minutes after being acquitted of charges related to the killing of two police officers. Authorities said the move followed a state appeal seeking to overturn the court’s decision.

The incident has raised concerns about the rule of law in Gambia, with demonstrators accusing the government of injustice.

Lamin Fatty, Protester: "This is not only about Ousainou and his sister, Amie, it's about every Gambian that we have in this country. What happened to Ousainou yesterday and his sister could happen to me, could happen to any one of us tomorrow. This is why we are out here to show our anger to the government of Adama Barrow, that what they are doing is injustice. We want justice for the Bojang siblings, we want a better governance for the people of this country."

Police later announced that the siblings had once again been released, but the episode has already fueled wider frustration, with many calling for stronger judicial independence and accountability under President Adama Barrow.