A French citizen was arrested on February 14, 2026, in Senegal on charges including unnatural acts, criminal association, money laundering, and attempted transmission of HIV during a broader wave of detentions. This development was confirmed by diplomatic sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The French embassy in Dakar is actively tracking the case of the detained individual. Consular officials have visited the French national on four separate occasions to ensure consular protection is upheld, sources confirmed.

Diplomatic and consular services continue to maintain close contact with the detained individual’s family, providing updates and guidance throughout the process.

Senegal’s harsh anti-LGBTQ+ legislation sparks international concern

On March 31, Senegal enacted a sweeping law that significantly tightens penalties for homosexuality. The legislation doubles sentences for unnatural acts, introducing prison terms ranging from five to ten years and fines between €3,000 and €15,000 for individuals convicted of same-sex relations.

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko championed the controversial bill. During a February 25 address, he stated that any sexual act between individuals of the same gender would be classified as an unnatural act, noting that the law clarifies previously undefined terminology. Reports in local media indicate that dozens of arrests related to the new law have been documented daily since its passage.

The measure is deeply troubling and violates fundamental human rights, warned the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk.

French diplomatic sources reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to universal human rights, stating: “France stands firmly by the principles of universality and indivisibility of human rights, alongside its dedication to the universal decriminalization of homosexuality, the defense of LGBTQ+ rights, and the fight against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.”

French authorities have further pledged their full support to individuals facing discrimination wherever their rights are under threat, with particular emphasis on those endangered by the new Senegalese legislation.