Reliable information received from credible sources has it that Sheikh Omar Jarju, a native of Kasila Village in the Foni Bintang District of West Coast Region, who has applied for recruitment into The Gambia Armed Force (GAF), died on Thursday 3 January, whilst doing the Basic Fitness Training (BFT), at the Yundum Barracks between the hours of 14:00hr to 15:00hrs.

According to the information, Sheikh Omar Jarju collapsed on the way during BFT taking place from the gate of Yundum Barracks to Lamin at least covering 3 kilometres to and from the barracks. The information indicated that Jarju could not make it back to the barracks after reaching Lamin and eventually collapsed on the way back. The information stated that he was carried by the Military ambulance to the Military Hospital at the Yundum Barracks, where he was admitted and later moved to RVTH where he was pronounced dead.

A family member of Jarju confirmed the incident and said the young man was laid to rest at his native village in Kasila on Friday 4, after the Friday prayers. The family described him as an ambitious man who always wanted to serve his country and people through military.

When contacted the Spokesperson of GAF Captain Lamin K. Sanyang said he is not personally aware of the incident until he makes enquiries into the matter.