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Senegalese authorities arrest 14 in paedophile ring bust
Senegalese police have detained 14 individuals accused of running a transnational paedophile network operating between Senegal and France since 2017, officials announced on Sunday.
Allegations and charges
The suspects, all Senegalese nationals, face charges including organised paedophilia, pimping, rape of minors under 15, sodomy, and intentional HIV transmission. According to police, the group allegedly coerced young boys into unprotected sexual acts with predominantly HIV-positive men, recording the abuse for distribution.
French connection uncovered
Four of those arrested are accused of acting under the direction of a French national, detained in France in April 2025. The French suspect allegedly orchestrated the crimes in exchange for financial payments, authorities said.
Coordinated raids and evidence seizure
Police conducted simultaneous searches across multiple locations in Dakar and Kaolack, a city 200 km southeast of the capital, seizing materials believed to be linked to the crimes. The operation was part of a joint effort between Senegalese and French law enforcement, with French officers participating in the mission.
"The Criminal Investigations Division (DIC) carried out a major operation, dismantling a transnational organised criminal group whose members operated primarily between France and Senegal," the police statement said.
Public urged to assist investigations
Senegalese police have vowed to continue targeting such criminal networks and have released a toll-free number for the public to report any relevant information. The 14 suspects were presented before a judge on Friday following their arrests.
International cooperation
The case highlights ongoing cross-border collaboration between Senegal and France to combat organised crime and protect minors. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the victims or the extent of the network's operations.
