The Gambia launches the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) to strengthen criminal investigations

The Gambia launches the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) to strengthen criminal investigations

On Tuesday, 28 April 2026, under the patronage of the Minister of Interior and the Minister of Justice, the national authorities and the partners of the AFIS Project of the WAPIS Programme (Western African Police Information System), financed by the European Union, officially launched the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) for criminal use. The event also marked the inauguration of the renovated premises of the Criminal Records Office/Scientific Support Unit (CRO/SSU) in The Gambia. The deployment of the criminal AFIS represents a significant step in the joint commitment of The Gambia supported by ECOWAS, the European Union, and INTERPOL to strengthen the operational capacities of law enforcement agencies in criminal identification and case resolution at national, regional and international levels. The system forms part of a broader set of measures implemented since the start of the project. This includes updates to the legal framework governing the creation of the AFIS system and the processing of biometric data, capacity building initiatives, renovation of forensic infrastructure, provision of forensic equipment, and the full deployment of the criminal AFIS system.

In her welcoming remarks, the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Crime Management, Amie Nyassi, underlined that crime scene evidence is no longer isolated; it becomes part of a connected national system capable of linking cases, identifying repeat offenders, and guiding investigators with precision.

Representing INTERPOL, Mark Branchflower highlighted that the AFIS system deployed in The Gambia complements the nominal data inserted into the existing national WAPIS system with biometric data, including fingerprints and latent prints collected at crime scenes. The integration of these systems enhances the identification of suspects and increases the rate of case linkage and resolution both nationally and, through INTERPOL, internationally.

The Deputy Head of Mission of the European Union in the Gambia, Raphaël Brigandi, stated that "The European Union, as the major doner, is actively supporting the deployment of AFIS across West Africa and in The Gambia. The objective is to strengthen the fight against crime, in full respect of human rights and data protection standards." He added: "With AFIS, investigations in The Gambia will become faster and more reliable. This is a concrete investment in the security sector that will reinforce public trust. We are confident that the system will be fully used, properly maintained, and supported by all necessary legal safeguards."

The Inspector General of Police, Seedy M. Touray highlighted that the AFIS system transforms criminal record management from a static archive into a dynamic investigative tool. It strengthens the ability of national law enforcement agencies to identify fugitives, prevent cross-border criminal movement, and contribute meaningfully to global policing efforts. He stated that "The Gambia is no longer a safe haven for criminals to perpetrate transnational organized crime." He assured Gambians and non-Gambians alike that from today, "we are strengthening the shield of justice in The Gambia." And added that "crime will be met with science, professionalism, and unwavering resolve."

In his address, the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Kebba Nfally Darboe, emphasized that the AFIS system is a truly national system that extends beyond the Police CRO/SSU to key security institutions throughout the country. He reaffirmed the government's readiness and commitment to assume full responsibility for its sustainability and emphasized that "by investing in forensic science and biometric technology, The Gambia is not only strengthening its security architecture but also reinforcing public confidence in criminal investigation."

The inauguration ceremony was followed by a live demonstration of the AFIS system and a visit to the Criminal Records Office/Scientific Support Unit premises. With funding from the European Union, the project has recently renovated these premises and provided equipment dedicated to the coordination of crime scene response, chemical processing and forensic photography.

The project increased the training capacity of forensic units with a pool of 10 national trainers who delivered training to nearly 300 law enforcement officers across The Gambia.

During the event, recently trained officers carried out a reconstruction of a crime scene showing the various steps involved in securing and processing forensic evidence.

In addition to high-level officials from national law enforcement agencies and the legislative branch, representatives of several diplomatic missions, international organizations and development agencies also attended the event.

The AFIS Project is part of the WAPIS Programme (Police Information System in West Africa) implemented in ECOWAS Member States and Mauritania. Supported by ECOWAS, the AFIS Project is funded by the European Union and implemented by INTERPOL.