The Gambia Armed Forces Contingent Thirteen (GAMCOY 13) yesterday returned home after successfully completing their six-month tour of duty in the Sudanese troubled region of Darfur.

98 personnel of the contingent were received at the foot of the aircraft by the deputy chief of Defence Staff, Major General Ousamn Bargie. The contingent is replaced by GAMCOY 14, who left Banjul on Saturday. In his welcoming remarks, Major General Bargie, deputy CDS on behalf of CDS, said the officers have done extremely well in Darfur and have maintained the Gambian flag high.

Major General Bargie, assured that the good reputation that The Gambia has won in Darfur will continue despite the misbehaviour of certain personnel in the contingent. “Investigations are going to be launched and anybody found wanting in that regard will be dealt with accordingly,” he warned.

Captain Amadou Bojang, Officer Commanding Military Police at the Yundum Barracks, also welcomed the contingent back home and commended them for their hard work while in Darfur.

Major Musa Gibba, a member of Gamcoy 13, said the day he was taking off from the Banjul International Airport, he lost his father. “The mission has not been easy but with the help of God we were able to conquer some of challenges,” he added.

WO2 Simon Jatta and Private Essa Ngum, both expressed similar sentiment.