By Kebba AF Touray
The Gambia’s National Assembly has approved stricter penalties for cattle theft, reinforcing efforts to deter livestock-related crimes.
Lawmakers made this decision on Monday, 10 March 2025, during the consideration stage of the Criminal Offences Bill 2020, tabled by Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dawda Jallow.
The bill’s clause 231 outlines specific penalties for livestock theft, stating: “A person convicted of stealing a horse, mare, gelding, ass, mule, camel, ostrich, bull, cow, ox, ram, ewe, whether, goat or pig, is liable on conviction to imprisonment for seven years.”
During deliberations, the Constitutional Matters Committee recommended a penalty of D100,000 and three years’ imprisonment. However, lawmakers were divided on the severity of the penalties, debating various alternatives. Some supported the committee’s recommendation, while others suggested D100,000 or seven years’ imprisonment, D100,000 plus three years’ imprisonment, A minimum of D50,000 and one-year imprisonment, D20,000 and one-year imprisonment
Due to these differing opinions, the matter was put to a vote. The majority of lawmakers—24 members, approved a penalty of D30,000 and one-year imprisonment, while eight legislators supported D50,000 and one-year imprisonment. Ultimately, Clause 231 was adopted as part of the Criminal Offences Bill.
The bill also introduces new provisions addressing other crimes. Clause 83 targets false claims by public officials, stating that an official who knowingly submits false returns or statements regarding payments or goods commits an offence. The clause stipulates a fine of D200,000, five years’ imprisonment, or both.
Additionally, Clause 212 deals with child kidnapping for theft-related purposes. It states that anyone who abducts a child under 18 years with the intent of stealing from them commits a felony and is liable to seven years’ imprisonment upon conviction.
This bill marks the first comprehensive review of The Gambia’s Criminal Code since its enactment in 1933. It aims to modernize the country’s criminal justice system by removing outdated provisions that restrict freedom of speech, such as criminal defamation and sedition. Moreover, it expands Gambian courts’ jurisdiction over crimes committed by individuals outside the country who later enter The Gambia, eliminating the need for extradition. The bill also revises sentencing laws to reflect contemporary realities.
With these changes, the National Assembly seeks to ensure a more effective and just legal framework for addressing crime in The Gambia.
