The central police station in Rufisque dismantled a migrant smuggling network operating in the Diokoul area of the Rufisque department. Two smugglers were brought before the Financial Judicial Unit on Tuesday. Seven would-be migrants were arrested as part of the investigation.

On the evening of May 24, 2026, acting on intelligence indicating the existence of a gathering point for clandestine departures to the Canary Islands, investigators launched a surveillance and infiltration operation. During the operation, police arrested IS Diop, alias "IZ," a mason residing in Diokoul, and A. Ngarane, also a mason, residing in Cité Gabon.

A trip costing between 500,000 and 700,000 FCFA

According to the investigation, the suspects were acting in collaboration with a certain Mr. Mbaye, alias "Khou," presented as one of the ringleaders of the network and currently at large. He was even "at sea," according to statements gathered by investigators. Those seeking to emigrate had to pay between 500,000 and 700,000 CFA francs to embark for Spain aboard a pirogue.

After cross-checking information, the Urban Security Investigation Brigade set up surveillance. The investigation led the police to a house in the Cité Gabon neighborhood where several migrants were being housed while awaiting departure.

On the same day, following a discreet surveillance operation, a member of the Research Brigade successfully infiltrated the group of migrants. This infiltration led to the arrest of the would-be illegal immigrants and the identification of the two suspected smugglers.

The candidates, when questioned, identified Mr. Mbaye, alias "Khou," as one of the network's main organizers. They also explained that he had tasked IS Diop, alias "IZ," with finding accommodation for the candidates about to leave.

Seven candidates arrested

Investigators also indicate that A. Ngarane made his mother's house available to house the migrants. When questioned by police, IS Diop and A. Ngarane admitted to the charges against them.

The dismantling of the network led to the arrest of seven individuals attempting to emigrate illegally. These young people come from Dakar, Diourbel, Mbour, and Guinea-Conakry. Among them are vendors, high school seniors, an electrician, a carpenter, and a cleaning technician. A search of the house used as their accommodation uncovered equipment likely to be used for a crossing by pirogue (a type of canoe).

The investigation continues in order to apprehend the other members of the network, including Mr. Mbaye alias "Khou", who is actively being sought.