Senegalese authorities conducted a sweeping overnight security operation in Dakar over teh weekend, resulting in the detention of hundreds and the seizure of illegal narcotics and vehicles. The coordinated effort between the national police and gendarmerie, overseen by top security officials, underscores a heightened focus on maintaining public order in the capital region.This operation, spanning Diamniadio to Dakar, reflects a proactive approach to address ongoing security concerns and follows similar, albeit smaller-scale, operations reported earlier this year [[3]].
Senegalese police and gendarmerie conducted a large-scale security operation in Dakar overnight, resulting in hundreds of detentions and the seizure of illegal drugs and vehicles.
Dakar saw a significant increase in law enforcement presence from Saturday, November 22nd, to Sunday, November 23rd, as national police and the gendarmerie jointly worked to address growing security concerns. The operation, which ran from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., focused on increased patrols and checks across the region.
The coordinated effort was overseen by Interior and Public Security Minister Maître Bamba Cissé, alongside Brigadier General Assane Beye, Commander of the Territorial Gendarmerie, and Divisional Commissioner, Director of Public Security. The high-level involvement of these officials underscored the importance placed on the combined operation.
The Gendarmerie deployed 1,149 personnel from the LGI squadrons, the Dakar Mobile Group, canine units, drone units, and judicial teams. Police Nationale contributed 391 agents from the GMI, the Research Brigade, the Dakar Urban Corps, and the SIRA.
The operation spanned from Diamniadio to Dakar, yielding significant results. A total of 613 individuals were detained, with 511 held for identity verification and 102 arrested for various offenses.
Law enforcement immobilized 53 vehicles, with 23 impounded. Authorities also seized 3.5 kilograms of cannabis, 8 grams of cocaine, 5 joints, and 69 ecstasy pills. Additionally, 53 driver’s licenses were suspended, and 616,000 CFA francs in fines were collected.
Following the operation, both the Gendarmerie Nationale and the Police Nationale reaffirmed their commitment to continuing joint actions to bolster public safety and security. Officials stated they intend to maintain this level of coordination to more effectively address the security challenges facing the capital. The coordinated effort signals a proactive approach to maintaining order in the region.