Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – The arrest of popular singer Djiby Dramé by the Research Brigade of the Keur Massar gendarmerie marks the latest development in a widening investigation into an alleged network of homosexuals in Senegal—an operation in which a banker, Doudou Lamine Dieng, has emerged as the central figure linking multiple high-profile arrests.
According to Senegalese media reports, investigators initially dismantled what they described as a network of presumed homosexuals, leading to the arrest of 12 suspects.
The case took a decisive turn after one of those detained, Mamadou Gningue, named Djiby Dramé during questioning, identifying the artist as his alleged partner.
This disclosure prompted investigators to focus on the musician. A forensic examination of Djiby Dramé’s mobile phone allegedly revealed evidence suggesting that he was living as a couple with Doudou Lamine Dieng, a banker already known to investigators.
Dieng had earlier played a crucial role in the arrest of television presenter Pape Cheikh Diallo, host of the program Quartier Général, whom he reportedly denounced to the authorities.
With these elements, gendarmes moved swiftly. Djiby Dramé was arrested and placed in police custody on Friday by the Keur Massar Research Brigade. His detention came barely days after that of Pape Cheikh Diallo, reinforcing the perception of a single investigation unfolding in successive waves rather than isolated arrests.
Investigators now consider Doudou Lamine Dieng the principal “X factor” in the case, who triggered the initial arrest of Pape Cheikh Diallo and is a central link uncovered through digital evidence in the case against Djiby Dramé.
His position has effectively bridged two strands of the same inquiry, accelerating the expansion of the probe.
In total, the 12 suspects placed in custody are being investigated on charges including association of criminals, acts described as “against nature,” voluntary transmission of HIV/AIDS through unprotected sexual relations, and endangering the lives of others, according to sources close to the case.
Legal Framework on Homosexuality in Senegal
In Senegal, homosexuality is not explicitly defined in law as such, but same-sex relations are prosecuted under Article 319 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes so-called “unnatural acts.”
Convictions can carry prison sentences and fines. In practice, however, many cases collapse due to evidentiary challenges, particularly when suspects are not caught in the act.
Despite strong political rhetoric, the legal framework remains unchanged. The criminalization of homosexuality was one of the flagship promises of the Sonko–Diomaye political duo during the presidential campaign.
Yet, since coming to power, no new legislation has been introduced to formally reinforce or expand existing provisions.
Opposition figures, civil society groups, and even some supporters of the ruling authorities have repeatedly called for the adoption of a specific law clearly criminalizing homosexuality. To date, no legislative step has been taken.
As a result, while the authorities often signal a firm political will to punish homosexuality, prosecutions continue to rely on the existing and broadly worded provisions on “unnatural acts” – a legal reality that frequently leads to the release of suspects for lack of tangible proof.
