Banjul: Mayor Malick-Lowe condemns El Hella robbery, calls for community vigilance

Mayor of Banjul, Rohey Malick-Lowe, has strongly condemned the February 8 robbery at a shop in El Hella on Hegan Street, where two suspects escaped with a large sum of money.

Describing the act as unacceptable in Banjul’s peaceful environment, Mayor Malick-Lowe reaffirmed her confidence in the vigilance of the police force to track down the culprits.

“It has come to my attention that an alleged robbery occurred yesterday, February 8, 2025, where two suspects attacked a shop at El Hella on Hegan Street and made away with a large sum of money. Such acts of criminality have no place in our peaceful city,” she stated.

The mayor urged residents to stay alert and assist law enforcement with any useful information.

“I have full confidence in the vigilance of our police force to track down the suspects and bring them to justice. However, I urge all residents to remain alert and assist the police with any information that may lead to the arrest of the perpetrators,” she said.

Mayor Malick-Lowe emphasized that Banjul is a beacon of peace and stability, urging the public to work together in safeguarding the city’s security.

“Banjul is a city of peace, and it is our collective responsibility to protect it. Let us refrain from such acts and work together to safeguard our community. If the perpetrators are from outside our city, we must remain united in ensuring they do not disrupt our harmony,” she added.

She further warned against complacency, stressing that isolated incidents could escalate if not properly addressed.

“Whilst this is an isolated incident, we must remember that unchecked acts of violence grow into impossible situations. Our city—residents, hundreds of thousands of daily visitors, and the business community—must unite against this rather unfortunate incident. We have always been this country’s beacon of peace and harmony and an example for the entire sub-region.”

Reassuring Banjulians of her commitment, she concluded: “As Mayor of our dear city, I stand by you all and continue to believe in the beauty of our community.”

The incident has sparked concerns over security in the city, and authorities have vowed to intensify efforts to apprehend the suspects while maintaining Banjul’s reputation as a safe and welcoming hub.