A judicial matter is currently generating significant attention across Sénégal following the apprehension of Matar Ndiaga Seck, a 51-year-old individual widely identified by local media as a political figure with ties to influential circles. The Division des investigations criminelles (DIC) carried out the operation subsequent to a search warrant issued by police services in Linguère, located in the northern part of the country.

According to information gathered from sources close to the investigation, the arrest is part of a broader inquiry concerning issues related to the criminalization of homosexuality. Investigators have referenced consistent evidence in a series of arrests already conducted within the Djoloff region, where approximately twenty individuals have reportedly been taken into custody under the scope of these ongoing investigations.

At this juncture, judicial authorities have not released a detailed statement regarding the specific allegations or the precise legal classifications of the infractions. Investigations are actively proceeding, particularly focusing on the analysis of seized digital data, including the contents of a mobile phone, which sources suggest could prove pivotal in guiding the direction of 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 reinforced existing provisions under Article 319 of the Penal Code, notably expanding infractions to include the concept of “promotion” of homosexuality. Penalties for such offenses can now extend to up to ten years of imprisonment.

This legislative reinforcement has provoked widespread reactions from human rights organizations, which are condemning an escalation in arrests and an increasingly repressive environment for individuals who are LGBT or perceived as such. These organizations report that over a hundred arrests have been documented since the implementation of the new legal measures.

In this context, some non-governmental organizations also highlight the political sensitivity surrounding certain ongoing cases, especially when individuals implicated are associated with circles close to the government or administration. They urge caution, however, emphasizing that individual responsibilities must be legally established by the justice system rather than through speculation.

Furthermore, human rights advocacy groups confirm they are closely monitoring other similar cases, including that of a foreign national detained for several months in connection with a comparable matter, and have indicated receiving numerous requests for assistance through their support mechanisms.

For the moment, Senegalese authorities have not offered further clarification on these ongoing proceedings. The progression of the inquiry will be determined by the outcomes of the judicial investigations and the evidence presented before the competent courts in the coming weeks.