It is with profound shock and sadness that the Gambia Government received today, information from the Sussex Metropolitan Police in The UK of a dead male found on TUI flight, No. BY225 from Banjul to London, Gatwick on 5th December, 2022.
According to the information, the deceased black male was found within the wheel bay of the aircraft without identification documents to establish his name, age, nationality or travel itinerary. It is, therefore, not clear at this stage, who he is; whether Gambian or non-Gambian en route to another destination.
The body was removed from the aircraft and taken to Worthing Hospital where finger prints and DNA samples were taken for purposes of proper identification.
While awaiting further information from the UK Police, The Gambia Government will not only collaborate with the UK Police but will continue its own investigations into this unfortunate situation and will surely, update the public accordingly.
Therefore, The Gambia Government urges staff of the Banjul International Airport (BIA), security and members of the public with leads or crucial information to kindly contact The Gambia Police Force (GPF), the State Intelligence Services (SIS) to help bring closure to this tragic case.
Signed
Ebrima G. Sankareh
The Gambia Government Spokesperson & Presidential Diaspora Adviser
Press Release Dated: 20th December, 2022
