A French national has been detained in Senegal since February 14, 2026, over charges including “unnatural acts,” as confirmed by a diplomatic source to the Agence France-Presse (AFP) on Friday, May 15. This incident comes amid the Senegalese government’s recent tightening of laws against homosexual relations.

Arrest Amid Heightened Crackdown

According to the diplomatic source cited by AFP, the French citizen was apprehended during a large-scale operation on February 14. The charges against him involve “unnatural acts,” criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and an alleged attempt to transmit HIV. French media outlets BFM-TV and Franceinfo initially broke the story. Franceinfo reports that the individual is an engineer in his thirties residing in Dakar.

Consular Support by France

French authorities are closely monitoring the case. The French diplomatic mission in Dakar has confirmed that the consulate has visited the detainee four times as part of consular protection. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris remains in regular contact with his family as well.

New Law Intensifying Penalties Against Homosexuality

A predominantly Muslim country, Senegal passed legislative reforms in early March enhancing penalties for homosexual relations, now punishable by five to ten years in prison. The law was enacted by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 31.

This legislative change occurs amid rising homophobic rhetoric and actions in the country, accompanied by several arrests related to suspected homosexuality. In Senegal, same-sex relationships are largely viewed as contradictory to social and religious norms. Strengthening their repression was among the commitments made by those currently in power.

France’s Diplomatic Stance

The French government has reiterated its commitment to defending fundamental rights and advocating for the universal decriminalization of homosexuality. The diplomatic source from France noted that the country’s efforts continue towards combating discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and protecting the rights of LGBT+ individuals.