Gay Men Arrested for Homosexuality in Senegal

San Diego, Calif. – Up to 20 men have been arrested on suspicion of homosexuality in Dakar, Senegal, the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission said Feb. 4.

A British Broadcasting Corporation report three days later said at least some of the men had been released from custody. The BBC had no further details.

The arrests occurred after the magazine Icône published photographs of a local gay wedding that took place more than 18 months ago.

IGLHRC said the sensationalistic magazine paid $3,000 to acquire the photos.

“We are afraid for our lives, especially those of us shown in the photographs,” said local activist Jean R. “Some of us have gone into hiding and others are fleeing the country.”

Penal Code Article 319 punishes homosexual acts with up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.