The latest arrests bring the number of people charged under Senegal’s tougher laws to more than 100 this year.

Dakar, Senegal (Running Africa) — Senegalese authorities have arrested and charged 71 men over alleged same-sex relations, marking a significant escalation in enforcement after lawmakers introduced tougher penalties for homosexual activity earlier this year.

The public prosecutor’s office announced the cases on Friday, saying the men had appeared before a court on charges that include what Senegalese law describes as “unnatural acts.” Charges against another 28 defendants were dropped.

The latest prosecutions bring the number of people charged under the strengthened legislation to more than 100, drawing renewed attention to Senegal’s treatment of LGBTQ+ people and the consequences of the country’s expanded criminal penalties.

More Than 100 Charged Under Tougher Legislation

Senegal has long criminalized same-sex sexual activity, but the strengthened legislation has increased the legal consequences for people accused of violating the country’s restrictions.

The latest arrests represent one of the largest groups prosecuted since the tougher measures were adopted.

Several prominent Senegalese figures have also reportedly been caught up in the broader crackdown, including celebrities previously arrested on suspicion of engaging in same-sex relations.

HIV-Related Charges Dropped

Some defendants initially faced additional allegations related to the deliberate transmission of HIV, but prosecutors have since dropped those charges.

The remaining cases will proceed under Senegal’s laws governing same-sex sexual activity.

Authorities have continued to defend enforcement of the country’s laws, while the growing number of arrests has intensified scrutiny from human rights organizations.

Rights Groups Raise Concerns Over LGBTQ+ Protections

Human rights groups have warned that tougher penalties could deepen discrimination and increase the vulnerability of LGBTQ+ people in Senegal.

Advocates have raised concerns that expanded criminalization could contribute to stigma, harassment, and further targeting of people based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation.

Senegal’s approach stands in contrast to a small but growing number of African countries that have moved to decriminalize consensual same-sex relations in recent years.

Senegal Continues Enforcement Amid International Scrutiny

The latest prosecutions underscore the widening legal risks surrounding same-sex relationships in Senegal as authorities continue enforcing the revised legislation.

The issue remains deeply contentious domestically, where opposition to homosexuality is widespread, while international and regional rights organizations continue to call for greater protections for LGBTQ+ communities.

As the cases move through Senegal’s courts, they are likely to keep the country’s LGBTQ+ laws and broader human rights record under heightened scrutiny.