The investigation into the theft of jewelry from Senegalese TV presenter Eva Tra has taken a significant turn with the arrest of a second suspect, Baye Guèye. According to Télé Futurs Médias, Baye Guèye was apprehended by the Kaolack research brigade and subsequently transferred to the Faidherbe gendarmerie. The theft, which occurred on July 24, 2026, involved a sophisticated operation where the perpetrators used fraudulent phone calls to manipulate Eva Tra's domestic staff and son into handing over the jewelry.

The stolen jewelry, estimated to be worth 12 million CFA francs, was sold in the Gambia. Baye Guèye confessed to having received two commissions of 200,000 CFA francs each, totaling 400,000 CFA francs, for his role in transporting and selling the stolen goods. The modus operandi involved Baye Guèye and the main suspect, Mouhamed Coulibaly, traveling to the Gambia via Taïba Niassène, Ndinguiraaye, Nioro, and Keur Ayib. They made two trips to Serekunda, where they sold the gold to a local merchant.

The arrest of Baye Guèye comes after the main suspect, Mouhamed Coulibaly, was apprehended on September 9, 2026. Initially, the case was set to be heard at the Dakar flagrant offenses court following Coulibaly's arrest. However, Eva Tra's counsel requested a postponement to September 25, 2026, to incorporate Baye Guèye into the case. The two suspects will be confronted to verify their statements before the trial.

Baye Guèye is currently in custody on charges of association with felons and complicity in fraud. His arrest and subsequent statements have provided valuable insights into the operation, which involved a well-orchestrated plan to deceive Eva Tra's household staff. The stolen jewelry was carefully transported and sold in the Gambia, with the suspects taking measures to avoid detection.

The case has garnered significant attention in Senegal, with many following the developments closely. Eva Tra, a popular TV presenter, was understandably shaken by the incident, which highlighted the need for vigilance and caution in the face of increasingly sophisticated scams. The authorities have been praised for their swift action in apprehending the suspects and recovering some of the stolen goods.

The investigation has revealed a complex web of deceit and collaboration between the suspects. Baye Guèye's arrest and confession have provided crucial evidence, which will likely be used to build a strong case against both suspects. The authorities are expected to present their findings in court, where the suspects will face charges related to the theft and sale of the stolen jewelry.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of potential scams and taking measures to protect oneself and one's property. The swift action by the Senegalese authorities demonstrates their commitment to combating crime and bringing perpetrators to justice. As the case proceeds to trial, many will be watching closely to see that justice is served.

Key points

  • A second suspect, Baye Guèye, has been arrested in connection with the theft of Eva Tra's jewelry worth 12 million CFA francs.
  • The stolen jewelry was sold in the Gambia, with Baye Guèye receiving 400,000 CFA francs in commissions for his role.
  • The case is set to proceed to trial on September 25, 2026, with both suspects facing charges related to the theft and sale of the stolen jewelry.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.