The Parquet de Dakar announced on Friday, October 2, 2026, that it has opened an investigation into violent incidents that occurred in Senegal between 2021 and 2024. According to a communiqué from the prosecutor, these incidents may be qualified as "crimes against humanity" due to their scope and systematic nature. The investigation, conducted by the Section de recherches de la gendarmerie, has gathered evidence of 76 deaths and over 200 cases of torture or inhumane treatment.
The investigation, which took place between October 2025 and September 2026, has revealed a significant number of victims and witnesses who have come forward with testimonies. A total of 166 victims and witnesses have been interviewed, and medical documents have been analyzed, providing evidence of assassinations, murders, persecutions, and acts of torture. The prosecutor's office has confirmed that these acts are being taken seriously and will be thoroughly investigated.
The investigation has led to the arrest of five individuals suspected of participating in acts of violence. Four of them are accused of torturing a man named Pape Abdoulaye Touré, while the fifth suspect is linked to the death of Mamadou Ndoye, who was allegedly hit by a police vehicle in Bargny. The five suspects were inculpated on September 23, 2026, and two of them have been placed under detention, while the others are under judicial supervision or electronic monitoring.
The prosecutor, who had requested that all suspects be detained, has appealed the decision to grant some of them conditional release. The investigating magistrates have been instructed to pursue the investigation and gather more evidence, including judicial delegations, requests for assistance, and rogatory commissions. The prosecutor's office has emphasized that further judicial proceedings will be initiated as more information becomes available.
According to the prosecutor's communiqué, the violence between 2021 and 2024 resulted in 76 deaths, including 41 in the Dakar region alone. More than 200 people have been reported as victims of torture or inhumane, cruel, or degrading treatment. The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of these violent incidents and bring those responsible to justice.
The Senegalese authorities have taken a strong stance on addressing the violence that occurred during this period. The investigation is being conducted by a specialized unit, and the prosecutor's office has emphasized its commitment to pursuing those responsible for these crimes. The authorities have urged victims and witnesses to come forward and provide information to support the investigation.
The case has significant implications for the country's justice system and its efforts to address human rights abuses. The investigation's findings and subsequent judicial proceedings will be closely watched by human rights organizations and the general public. The authorities have assured that they will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for the violence are held accountable.
Key points
- The Parquet de Dakar has opened an investigation into violent incidents between 2021-2024 that may be qualified as "crimes against humanity".
- The investigation has led to the arrest of five suspects and the gathering of evidence from 166 victims and witnesses.
- The prosecutor's office has emphasized its commitment to pursuing those responsible for the violence and ensuring that justice is served.
