Senegal forces arrest 28 at MFDC political wing site
Security forces seized phones, documents, and flags during the operation in Ziguinchor.
Senegalese army and gendarmerie forces arrested 28 people, including nine women, in Ziguinchor on October 27, 2026. The operation targeted a compound identified as the headquarters of the political wing of the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC) in the Lyndiane Coboda neighborhood. Seized items included 17 mobile phones, documents, and MFDC insignia.
The raid occurred on the anniversary of the death of Abdou Elinkine Diatta, a significant figure in the Casamance rebellion, according to a source close to the case. The gathering was reportedly marked by the display of the MFDC flag, which authorities removed. The arrested individuals and seized items were handed over to the Ziguinchor gendarmerie research section for further investigation.
The investigation will aim to clarify the circumstances of the meeting and determine responsibilities. The site, known as 'Mangoukouro,' is a symbolic location for the MFDC's political wing, where its flag and anthem were developed. This action follows the August 2025 arrest and subsequent provisional release of MFDC spokesperson Amidou Djiba.
Why it mattersThe operation in Ziguinchor directly affects 28 individuals arrested and the political wing of the MFDC.