US reopens Gambia embassy

US Embassy in Gambian capital Banjul has reopened for normal operations after the Gambian government redeployed police guards it withdrew last week. The mission was closed for all but essential services on last Thursday after the protection force was withdrawn by the host country. The embassy reopened yesterday after the elite Police



Intervention Unit started guarding the mission.

The Gambian and US authorities have however not explained the circumstances leading to the redeployment of the police guards. The spat comes amid controversy over Gambia's arrest and prosecution of a US citizen who was detained while visiting relatives in the country.