Kenyan Man in Gambia Says His Documents Went Missing After Run-In with Police
A Kenyan farmer in The Gambia says he fears for his safety and legal status after a confrontation with police left him without key documents.
Ken, who has established his livelihood in the country, described the incident in a widely shared social media post as the most distressing experience of his life. He said the situation began when he was stopped by a traffic officer from Tanjeh Police Post while on his way to pay a hospital bill for a relative awaiting surgery.
Although he presented his driving licence and clearance form, the officer rejected his digital insurance and required him to report to the station. At the station, the matter was referred to a senior officer.
Despite explaining his urgent circumstances, Ken said he was held until he could provide a printed insurance document. He later left with his vehicle and papers but realised that his tint clearance form had been misplaced. To avoid further issues, he removed the tinted windows from his car.
The situation escalated on 5 May when he was stopped again at the same station. Ken alleged that an officer, identified as Musa, recognised him and insulted him, referring to him as “a stupid Kenyan” and telling him to return to his country.
He said the officer threw his documents on the ground and approached him in a threatening manner, prompting him to step back. Ken said that he has video evidence of the encounter and shared his account to highlight what he considers unfair treatment.
He said his intention was not to seek sympathy but to draw attention to the incident. Following public reaction, Ken reported that individuals contacted him to offer support and assured him that his documents would be returned. He also said disciplinary action would be taken against the officer involved.
