The Office of the Public Prosecutor at the Dakar High Court has initiated an investigation into alleged torture, inhumane and cruel treatment, and other potential crimes against humanity committed between 2021 and 2024. According to the prosecutor, preliminary investigations from October 2025 to September 2026 have provisionally identified 76 fatalities, including 41 in the Dakar region. More than 200 people are believed to have been victims of torture or inhumane treatment.
The investigation was prompted by two notifications to the prosecutor's office in July 2025. On August 4, the Dakar National Gendarmerie's Research Section was tasked with conducting the probe. The exploitation of documents, witness and victim testimonies, and medical examinations have uncovered evidence of potential assassinations, murders, persecution, and torture that may constitute crimes against humanity.
Five individuals have been arrested and taken into custody as part of the investigation. Four are suspected of participating in acts of torture against Pape Abdoulaye Touré, while the fifth person is accused of being involved in the death of Mamadou Ndoye. According to the prosecutor, Ndoye was intentionally struck by a police vehicle in Bargny.
The five suspects were formally charged on September 23, 2026, with crimes against humanity, including torture and murder. Two were remanded in custody, while the other three were placed under judicial supervision or electronic monitoring. The prosecutor had requested that all five be detained; however, the judges' decision was appealed on September 28.
The investigation is ongoing to establish individual responsibilities. Further procedures may be initiated in competent courts based on the findings of the investigation and trial. The case has garnered significant attention, with human rights organizations and local communities closely monitoring developments.
According to Babacar Ngom, the Public Prosecutor, the authorities are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The investigation's progress will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally, as it addresses allegations of serious human rights abuses.
The case raises concerns about the prevalence of torture and inhumane treatment in Senegal. Human rights groups have long highlighted the issue, and this investigation may mark a significant step towards addressing these allegations and providing justice to victims and their families.
Key points
- 76 people have died and over 200 have been victims of alleged torture or inhumane treatment in Senegal between 2021 and 2024.
- Five individuals have been charged with crimes against humanity, including torture and murder.
- The investigation is ongoing, with further procedures and potential charges possible.
