The Daily Observer (Banjul)
16 November 2009
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The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) have issued a warning to the general public to stop using or selling military equipment and items that can be used for impersonation or any other illegal act. Below we reproduce the full text of the press release sent to the Daily Observer.
The release reads:
The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) have observed with great concern the continued use, importation and sale of military equipment and items by some individuals and business persons despite concerted efforts in the past to stop such practices. Experience has shown that some people (who are not serving members of the GAF) had used military items and equipment to personify (for) their selfish interest, which has had a negative impact on civil military relationship and a threat to national security. It is perhaps crucial to state here, that the purchase, use and importation of military wares without (the) prior consent of the appropriate authority, is unlawful under section 144, sub-section (1) chapter 19 volume 3 of the laws of the Gambia.
Consequently, the general public is hereby strictly warned to desist from such acts. And institution, company or individuals wishing to import military wares or equipment must do so only when contracted by the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gambia Armed forces or its line ministry.
It is imperative to categorically state here that the use of military fatigue and items are only limited to serving members of The Gambia Armed Forces or otherwise on special occasions where the use of such equipment and items by non serving members is approved by the Gambia Armed Forces. Members of other security services are equally prohibited from the use of military items or wares whether on duty or not. By the same token, all vehicle owners that have military bearings should be repainted with immediate effect.
Equally, all business persons and individuals who have already imported military items for the purpose of sale or personal use are kindly urged to surrender them to The Gambia Armed Forces, military police at Yundum Barracks or to the nearest military post on or before Friday 20 November 2009.
Any military item or equipment not surrendered after the above-stipulated date will be confiscated and such person(s), institution(s), company (ies) or business (es) would be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the Gambia. While soliciting the cooperation and understanding of the general public, The Gambia Armed Forces wish to assure the general public of their unflinching support and collaboration in matters of national concern.
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