Photo credit: Standard newspaper
By Awa S Jallow
The Gambia Police Force yesterday graduated 1,330 recruits, at an event marked as the largest batch of police recruits.
The event marks the second batch of officers to be trained under the new democratic dispensation, a key part of the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) security sector transformation initiative.
The ceremony was attended by President Adama Barrow, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. In his address, President Barrow underscored the importance of the police force in national development. “Rendering national service to maintain law and order, peace, and freedom is a noble sacrifice any patriotic citizen can offer their country.” he said.
President Barrow also advised the new officers to view their service not just as a profession, but as a called to uphold the values of the Republic and contribute to the greater good of the nation. The Inspector General of Police spoke in the rigorous training the recruits underwent and the positive impact they will have on the country.
“Your recruitment and selection process was rigorous and thorough because we want the best police officers to serve Gambians. From the office in Banjul I was closely monitoring events at the Police Training School to make sure you get the best possible training before we deploy you into the streets to maintain law and order” he stated.
At the graduation ceremony, several standout recruits were recognized for their achievements. Aisha Jatta was accorded the Most Discipline. Best Female in Physical Fitness: Kaddy MarongBest Male in Physical Fitness: Lamin Sarjo. Best in Firing: Dembo Kanteh Best in Drill: Saikou Omar Ceesay. Best in Class: Ousman Leigh. Champion of Recruits: Aisha Jatta
