In Senegal, actress Bigué Diop, also known as Mame Dior, is currently facing a double indictment following an unexpected turn of events. The 32-year-old performer initially presented herself at the gendarmerie on March 26th to file a defamation complaint. This complaint stemmed from videos circulating on TikTok that accused her of theft. However, her situation dramatically shifted during her subsequent interrogation, leading to her own apprehension and implication in a theft case, as reported by Senenews.
Dual accusations emerge against the Senegalese actress
The investigation took a further critical turn when authorities seized and examined Bigué Diop’s mobile phone. This review allegedly led to the discovery of evidence supporting a second, distinct accusation: involvement in what are termed «unnatural acts,» referring to presumed homosexual relations.
On April 2nd, a judge formally indicted Bigué Diop on both counts. For the allegations related to theft, which encompass charges of criminal association and money laundering, she has been placed under judicial supervision. Regarding the second set of charges, concerning the alleged «unnatural acts,» she is now subject to an electronic bracelet.
Legal challenge and human rights concerns
Bigué Diop’s legal counsel, Ouseynou Ngom, vehemently disputes these charges. He specifically criticizes the conditions under which his client’s phone was searched, arguing that it constitutes a violation of Senegal’s existing cybersecurity legislation. The defense team has announced its intention to seek the annulment of the proceedings before the Indictment Chamber.
This case unfolds against a backdrop of increasing debate in Senegal surrounding the law against homosexuality, particularly following its recent toughening by members of the National Assembly. Beyond the charges involving Mame Dior, a series of arrests linked to similar accusations continues to fuel growing apprehension among human rights advocates across the nation.
