Fed up of attacks by thieves, the young people of Brikama Daruhairu in Kombo Central have formed a group to patrol their kabilo at night to protect residents, deter crimes and protect property.  

According to a member of the patrol group, Muhammed Darboe, a police superintendent in the area came up with the idea after talking with his colleagues in the Police about how they can keep communities safer.  

“We usually start patrolling after midnight until it’s closer to fajr time. The police in Brikama were consulted and they gave their blessing,” he said.  

Police PRO Lamin Njie said: "The Gambia Police Force in its drive to promote the concept of Community Policing nationwide has been been working closely with communities in setting up functional structures to enhance their participation and involvement in their security. Communities are encouraged to create Watch Committees comprising of able-bodied youths who will be working closely with the police to prevent crime." 

He added: "Members of the Community Watch Committees in close collaboration with the Police usually conduct vicinity patrols to deter criminals. Wherever they come across crime incidents, they engage the Police for appropriate actions.  

"This idea is gaining popularity within communities including Talinding, Bundung, Abuko, Latrikunda, Lamin Babylon, Farafenni among others." 

The patrol group in Brikama Daruhairu is made of young people from different walks of life. They walk the streets of their kabilo looking out for anything unusual, suspicious visitors or even an emergency.