The arrest of Matar Ndiaga Seck, a 51-year-old figure described by local media as a political ally within influential government circles, has ignited fierce discussions across Senegal. The operation was carried out by the Criminal Investigations Division (DIC) following a warrant issued by police in Linguère, a northern town in the country.

Investigators are probing his alleged involvement in a broader case targeting the criminalization of homosexuality. Multiple arrests have already occurred in the Djoloff region, where authorities claim to have apprehended around twenty individuals linked to the same investigation.

So far, judicial authorities have not released detailed statements regarding the charges or the specific offenses under scrutiny. The probe is ongoing, with digital evidence—including data extracted from a confiscated phone—potentially playing a pivotal role in determining the direction of the case.

tightening laws fuel concern over lgbt rights

This development unfolds against a backdrop of heightened legal restrictions in Senegal regarding same-sex relationships. A revised law enacted on March 31, 2026 expanded the scope of existing penal code provisions, notably targeting the “promotion” of homosexuality. Offenders now face penalties of up to ten years in prison.

The legislative shift has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations, which warn of an escalating crackdown on LGBT individuals or those perceived as such. These groups report over a hundred arrests since the law’s implementation, raising alarms about the growing repression.

Some NGOs have also highlighted the political sensitivity of certain cases, particularly when defendants are linked to power circles or government circles. They urge restraint, emphasizing that judicial processes must determine individual accountability rather than assumptions.

Additionally, rights groups are monitoring other similar cases, including that of a detained foreign national held for months in connection with comparable charges. Many have sought assistance through their support channels.

As the investigation progresses, Senegalese authorities have yet to provide further clarifications. The outcome will hinge on judicial findings and the evidence presented in court in the coming weeks.