Four hospitalised victims of a gruesome gas explosion that gripped a compound in Kanifing Estate, have told the Daily Observer about their state of health at the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital (RVTH) in Banjul, where they are recuperating.

The four, identified as Abdou Boye, a journalist-cum-senior member of Youth Ambassador for Peace, Abdou Badjie, an electrician, Samba Bah and Modou Ceesay, both drivers were admitted at the country’s main referral hospital on October 30, alongside 18 others. Their recovery paid more dividend, following the arrival of a burn specialist, under the auspices of President Yahya Jammeh. It was clear that all the four were healing, thereby regaining their colours gradually. Speaking to this paper, the patients expressed satisfaction with the pace of their recovery. According to Abdou Boye, three of them can “now walk with little difficulties. We are very happy with our improvements.”

The four young men expressed gratitude to President Yahya Jammeh for facilitating the arrival of Dr Lim, a burn specialist from the US, as well as assisting their families and themselves with cash donations. “This shows the care he has for us”, they explained, and then added: “We are also grateful to Dr Tamsir Mbowe, Secretary of State for Health and Social Welfare for his support and care. He sometimes stays with us till 2:00 a m or even 3:00 a m to make sure that we are taken proper care of.”

They also commended Dr Pachar Njie, Chief Medical Director of the RVTH and his staff members at RVTH for their sacrifice and care. “We want to also thank the government, religious leaders, residents of Kanifing East, and the entire Gambian people, as well as visitors for their support and love,” the said.

They also spoke about the attention and care received at the RVTH, saying “people must not under-estimate the hospital’s capability. They have done a wonderful job. This is why we have come this far”.

Meanwhile, one of the victims, Dodou Jagne, has been evacuated to Dakar, Senegal for treatment, while Modou Jobe was discharged last week Friday at the RVTH.

This paper has learnt that Dr Lim has left for the US and is expected to return to the country on December 3, with some medications for the four patients.

It could be recalled that four of the victims, who sustained mild burns were discharged, after receiving medical treatment.

Fourteen of those who sustained severe burns were eventually hospitalised at the Intensive Care Unit. Eight of the victims- Mustapha Gassama, Modou Lamin Touray, Ousman Bidwell, Demba Ndow, Abdou Demba, Pa Amat Jagne, Modou Lamin Touray, and Mustapha Kanteh, tragically passed away a few days and weeks later.