A French engineer in his early thirties has been arrested in Dakar as part of a broader crackdown on LGBTQ+ activities in Senegal. Authorities are pursuing charges including unnatural acts, criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and attempted transmission of HIV against the foreign national.
consular and diplomatic oversight
The French Embassy in Dakar reports that it is closely monitoring the case, with consular officials having conducted four visits to the detainee to ensure his welfare. Diplomatic teams in Paris continue to liaise with the individual’s family and relevant government agencies to provide necessary support.
tougher penalties for lgbtq+ rights under senegalese law
Earlier this month, Senegal enacted stricter legislation that imposes prison sentences of up to a decade for same-sex relations. The amendment reflects escalating social and political tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the country. France has reiterated its stance in favor of global decriminalization of homosexuality and the elimination of discrimination based on sexual orientation.