A dramatic scene unfolded last Saturday evening, when a Zimba (a Wolof cultural masquerade dancer), reportedly inflicted injuries on the neck and other body parts of a seven-year old boy (name withheld), which resulted to his death.

The tragedy occurred at Bundung Mauritani Junction, Serrekunda Central, during a three-day Zimba fiesta organised by a group of individuals in the area.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested two of the Zimbas and four other individuals (names withheld), who are said to be the organisers of the programme. They have already been placed under detention at the Bundung Police Station, helping the police in their investigations.

Sources told the Daily Observer that a number of the Zimbas are currently at large, suspected to be on the run.

“The Zimba chased the boy and knocked him down. The boy fell down and was then assisted by a family member, who carried him back home. He was then asked to take bath but he couldn’t. Suddenly, we realised that something was wrong with his neck and we took him to the Jammeh Foundation for Peace (JFP) Hospital in Bundung. Upon reaching the hospital, he was confirmed dead and was taken to the RVTH Mortuary in Banjul,” family sources told the Daily Observer.

Meanwhile, sources informed the Daily Observer that the deceased was laid to rest, yesterday evening.

The ban

Meanwhile, the Office of the Inspector General of Police yesterday issued a press release, banning Zimba and ‘Fural’ (social music jamboree), until further notice.

Below is the full text of the press release:

The office of the Inspector General of Police hereby informs the general public that social activities such as “Zimba” and “Fural” are temporary banned until further notice.This is as a result of a growing security concern these activities have on the lives, safety, and security of the general public.

The police have never issued any clearance and henceforth will never issue any permit for the organisation of these activities.

Anyone found organising, coordinating or conducting any of these events will be severely dealt with according to law.
The Inspector General of Police solicits the cooperation and understanding of the general public.