The Gambia Prison Services wishes to address and clarify recent misleading reports circulating on social media regarding an alleged attempted prison escape at Mile 2 Prison involving a smuggled hacksaw.

We categorically state that the information shared by “What’s On - Gambia” is misleading and unfounded. The incident in question occurred during the closing hours of the day, when vigilant prison officers, while conducting routine end-of-day checks, discovered and intercepted a hacksaw in the possession of an inmate. The tool was promptly confiscated before it could pose any security threat to the facility.

Contrary to reports, the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) was not involved in the discovery. Their unannounced inspection took place earlier that same day, during the early morning hours, and was unrelated to this particular incident.

Preliminary internal investigations have identified a prison officer allegedly linked to the incident. The officer in question is currently under investigation, and appropriate disciplinary and legal actions will be taken based on the findings.

The Gambia Prison Services remains committed to transparency, professionalism, and maintaining the safety and security of all correctional facilities under its jurisdiction. We urge the media and public to avoid spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic or undermine institutional integrity.

Further updates will be provided as investigations progress.

Signed,

Public Relations Officer

Gambia Prison Services

Date: 1/05/2025