IGP Touray promotes Traffic Officer for courage under dangerous circumstances

By Ebrima Fadera 

Inspector General of Police Seedy Mukhtar Touray has promoted Sgt. Alhagie Badjie of the Police Traffic Unit to the rank of inspector after what authorities described as an act of courage, restraint and professionalism during a dangerous traffic enforcement encounter.

The promotion was announced Wednesday, June 10, 2026, following an incident involving the driver of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle who allegedly attempted to evade arrest after failing to produce a valid insurance certificate upon request.

According to the Gambia Police Force, Badjie was lawfully carrying out traffic enforcement duties when the driver allegedly wound up the vehicle’s window, trapping the officer’s hand. The driver then reportedly drove off recklessly, creating an immediate threat to the officer’s safety.

Police said Badjie, in an effort to avoid being dragged along the roadway, climbed onto the bonnet of the moving vehicle while repeatedly instructing the driver to stop.

Despite several warnings, the suspect allegedly continued driving from Banjul to Manjai, placing the officer and other road users at risk. Police said the driver eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene but was later arrested.

The matter is currently before the courts.

The police high command said Badjie’s promotion reflects the inspector general’s recognition of his courage, discipline and commitment to duty under life-threatening circumstances.

The Gambia Police Force commended the newly promoted inspector for his bravery, composure and dedication to public service, describing his conduct as an example of the professionalism expected of police officers.

The incident also raises broader questions about road safety, respect for lawful police instructions and the risks traffic officers face in the line of duty. Traffic enforcement is often treated as routine public work, but encounters of this nature show how quickly a routine stop can become dangerous when drivers refuse to comply with lawful instructions.

For the public, the case is a reminder that traffic laws are not only administrative requirements. Valid insurance, respect for officers and compliance during traffic stops are part of a wider system designed to protect drivers, passengers, pedestrians and communities.

For the police, the incident also reinforces the importance of training, discipline and restraint. Badjie’s response, according to the force, showed both courage and control in a moment that could have ended in tragedy.

The Gambia Police Force congratulated Inspector Badjie and the Police Traffic Unit on the recognition, while reaffirming its commitment to public safety and lawful enforcement.

Edited by: Mutiu Olawuyi