The Senegalese prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity, torture, and inhumane treatment that occurred between 2021 and 2024. According to a statement released by the prosecutor's office, preliminary investigations have identified 76 deaths and over 200 alleged victims. The investigation was prompted by two letters, dated July 28 and 30, 2025, from the Ministry of Justice and the prosecutor's office in Dakar.
The investigation, led by the Dakar prosecutor's office, has been ongoing since October 2025 and has involved the review of available documents and witness testimony. The probe has revealed alleged instances of assassination, murder, persecution, and acts of torture or inhumane treatment. Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the alleged crimes, with four suspected of participating in acts of torture against Pape Abdoulaye Touré and the fifth implicated in the death of Mamadou Ndoye.
According to the prosecutor's office, Mamadou Ndoye was allegedly struck and killed by a police vehicle in Bargny. The five individuals arrested were charged with crimes against humanity, including torture and murder, and were brought before the investigating judges on September 23, 2026. Two of the suspects were placed in custody, while the others were subject to judicial supervision or electronic monitoring.
The prosecutor's office has appealed the decision of the investigating judges, who did not grant the requested custodial sentences for all five suspects. The appeal was lodged on September 28, 2026. The investigation is ongoing, with the prosecutor's office seeking to establish the individual responsibilities of those involved in the alleged crimes.
The Senegalese authorities have vowed to pursue the investigation and bring those responsible to justice. The probe is focused on establishing the facts and identifying those responsible for the alleged crimes, which may be classified as crimes against humanity. The investigation may lead to additional judicial proceedings.
The case has garnered significant attention in Senegal, with many calling for accountability and justice for the alleged victims. The government's response to the investigation and the measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future remain to be seen.
The prosecutor's office has invited the investigating judges to establish judicial delegations, request necessary assistance, and issue rogatory commissions to facilitate the investigation. The authorities have assured that all necessary steps will be taken to uncover the truth and bring those responsible to justice.
Key points
- The Senegalese prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity, torture, and inhumane treatment between 2021 and 2024, with 76 deaths and over 200 alleged victims identified.
