By Louise Jobe
Corporal Ancy Jawo survived what many did not. Shot in the line of duty at Sukuta traffic lights, in an ambush that claimed the lives of two fellow policemen, she lives each day with the weight of that moment — not just in memory, but in her body and mind.
Nearly two years have passed since that fateful day. And while the country mourned the fallen and justice slowly makes its way through the courts, Officer Jawo, the only survivor, is quietly enduring a different kind of struggle — one that is far from over.
Close family sources say she still suffers from constant pain and finds it difficult to breathe. The emotional toll is equally heavy. Trauma, they say, has changed the rhythm of her days. She avoids being alone because silence brings memories too loud to bear.
But perhaps more painful than the wounds themselves is what she believes came after: the silence from those she served.
“She’s been left on her own,” a relative said gently. “She gave everything, and now she’s just waiting… without the help she truly needs.”
Medical professionals have reportedly advised that Officer Jawo receive urgent treatment abroad — care not currently available in The Gambia. Her psychological condition, according to those familiar with it, also requires immediate attention. But those who know her say little has been done.
Her situation has brought quiet concern among her peers. Some officers who see her regularly have raised alarms about her deteriorating condition. “We are worried,” one said. “We fear what might happen if nothing is done soon.”
Those close to Officer Jawo say her case reflects a wider issue: injured officers often face a future of uncertainty. “When the incident fades from public memory, so does the support,” said one confidant. “And these are people who wore the uniform with pride.”
Disappointment has been directed at the top leadership of the Gambia Police Force. The Inspector General and senior officials have been accused, by some, of turning their focus elsewhere while officers like Jawo struggle. “They are travelling, attending meetings, appearing on TV,” one source said. “But those who took the bullets are forgotten. These officers are human too.”
The Gambia Police Force has not made a public statement on Officer Jawo’s case or addressed wider concerns about the treatment of wounded officers. Foroyaa contacted the police spokesman, who promised to get back to the reporter. Follow-ups proved unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, the man accused of the 2023 shooting remains on trial, facing terrorism and murder charges. For Officer Jawo, justice may still come in court — but healing, both physical and emotional, remains far more elusive.
And for now, she waits — with quiet courage, and growing pain.
