A judicial matter is generating significant discussion across Sénégal following the apprehension of Matar Ndiaga Seck, 51. He is widely described as a political figure with close ties to influential government circles and Ousmane Sonko. The operation was executed by the Division of Criminal Investigations (DIC), acting on a search warrant issued by police services in Linguère, located in the country’s northern region.
My investigation reveals that this arrest is part of a broader inquiry into matters concerning the criminalization of homosexuality. Investigators indicate that compelling evidence has emerged from a series of arrests already conducted in the Djoloff region, where approximately twenty individuals have been taken into custody as part of these ongoing investigations.
At this juncture, judicial authorities have not released any detailed statements regarding the specific allegations or the precise legal classifications of the offenses. The investigations are proceeding, with particular focus on analyzing seized digital data, including the contents of a mobile phone, which some sources suggest could be pivotal in guiding the inquiry.
This development unfolds within a particularly sensitive period in Sénégal, marked by a recent tightening of the legal framework governing same-sex relationships. A new law, enacted on March 31, 2026, has strengthened existing provisions within Article 319 of the Penal Code. Notably, it has expanded offenses to include the
