GPF engages URR heads of financial institutions on security measures
By Sulayman Waan
In response to the recent increase in armed robberies targeting financial institutions, the Office of the Regional Crime Officer, Upper River Region convened a meeting with bank managers and security heads at the Basse Area Council.
In a statement the police said: “The meeting, hosted by DSP Mendy (RCO URR) and his team, brought together representatives from GTBank, Ecobank, Standard Chartered Bank, Vista Bank, Supersonicz Financial Service, Wave Financial Service, and Yonna Forex Bureau, focusing on proactive security measures to prevent armed robbery and fraud-related crimes.”
During discussions, financial institutions were urged to enhance their security systems, particularly by installing high-quality CCTV cameras with no blind spots and sufficient storage for extended footage retention. Security personnel were also advised to closely monitor tinted and plateless vehicles within bank premises and prevent outward parking, which robbers often use for quick getaways. Staff vigilance was emphasized regarding individuals wearing hoodies, sunglasses, gloves, or masks, as well as those loitering around banking premises, as these behaviors are often linked to criminal intent.
The statement further said that the need for better training of private security personnel was also highlighted, with recommendations that security officers be equipped to distinguish between real and fake firearms and handle potential threats effectively.
In addition, officers were advised to closely monitor individuals accessing ATMs at odd hours, particularly those dressed suspiciously, as some fraudulent activities are conducted during nighttime.
To minimize potential losses during a robbery, bank managers were encouraged to limit cash availability at teller stations and ensure that live CCTV feeds are monitored in real-time from their offices to detect suspicious activities early. It was also stressed that bank officials should avoid tampering with crime scenes in the event of a robbery, as this could hinder forensic investigations.
The police said that bank representatives actively participated in the discussions, raised key concerns, including the need for armed police officers to handle both day and night security at financial institutions, as private security personnel often lack the required training to confront armed robbers.
“The bank representatives also called for stronger collaboration between the Police and the Central Bank of The Gambia to ensure that financial institutions implement the recommended security measures effectively.
At the conclusion of the meeting, bank managers expressed their appreciation for the initiative, describing it as the first of its kind at the regional level, it said.
They emphasized the need for periodic security discussions and requested that similar engagements be extended to other regions to strengthen security nationwide.
SW/COB/28/02/25
