French engineer detained in Senegal amid anti-lgbtq+ crackdown

A thirty-something French engineer working in Dakar has been taken into custody during a sweeping series of arrests tied to the country’s escalating anti-LGBTQ+ policies.

The man faces multiple charges, including unnatural acts, criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and attempted transmission of HIV. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the case, but local observers say the accusations stem from his alleged involvement in activities deemed illegal under Senegal’s recently tightened laws.

Consular intervention and diplomatic response

France’s embassy in Dakar reports it is closely monitoring the situation. Consular officials have conducted four in-person visits to ensure the detainee’s rights are respected, while the French foreign ministry continues to liaise with both the man’s family and relevant departments in Paris to coordinate support.

New legislation fuels concerns over LGBTQ+ rights

Earlier this month, Senegal enacted stricter penalties for same-sex relations, increasing maximum prison terms to a decade. The move has intensified debates over LGBTQ+ rights in the country, prompting international criticism and renewed calls for decriminalization worldwide.

Paris has reiterated its long-standing position in favor of universal decriminalization of homosexuality and the elimination of discrimination based on sexual orientation.