A judicial matter is generating significant discussion across Sénégal following the apprehension of Matar Ndiaga Seck, 51, a figure described by various local media outlets as closely connected to influential political circles, and by some, to Ousmane Sonko. This operation was executed by the Division des investigations criminelles (DIC), acting on a search warrant issued by police services in Linguère, located in the country’s northern region.
Reports from sources familiar with the inquiry, relayed through the local press, suggest that this detention is part of a wider investigation concerning cases related to the criminalization of homosexuality. Investigators are reportedly citing consistent evidence linking this arrest to a series of previous detentions in the Djoloff region, where approximately twenty individuals have already been taken into custody as part of the same ongoing inquiries.
As of now, judicial authorities have not released a detailed communiqué outlining the specific allegations or the exact legal classifications of the purported offenses. Investigations are actively proceeding, with particular attention given to the analysis of seized digital data, including the contents of a mobile phone, which some sources indicate could prove pivotal in shaping the direction of the inquiry.
This development unfolds within a particularly sensitive climate in Sénégal, characterized by a recent tightening of the legal framework governing same-sex relationships. A new law, enacted on March 31, 2026, has amplified existing provisions within Article 319 of the Penal Code. Notably, it has expanded the scope of infractions to include the concept of “promotion” of homosexuality, with potential penalties now extending up to ten years of imprisonment.
This legislative reinforcement has provoked strong reactions from human rights organizations, which are condemning what they perceive as an escalation in arrests and an increasingly repressive environment for individuals who are LGBT or perceived to be so. According to these organizations, more than one hundred detentions have been documented since the implementation of this new legal measure.
In this challenging environment, some non-governmental organizations are also underscoring the political sensitivity inherent in certain ongoing cases, especially when individuals implicated are believed to be associated with circles close to the government or administration. However, they advocate for caution, emphasizing that individual culpability must be established through the judicial process rather than through speculation.
Furthermore, human rights advocacy groups confirm they are closely monitoring other similar cases, including that of a foreign national who has been held for several months in connection with a comparable matter. They also report receiving numerous requests for assistance through their support mechanisms.
Currently, Senegalese authorities have refrained from providing additional details regarding these ongoing legal proceedings. The progression of the investigation will be contingent upon the findings of the judicial inquiries and the evidence presented before the competent courts in the coming weeks.
