The research brigade of the Keur Massar gendarmerie company has dismantled an organized network of theft of telecommunications equipment belonging to CAMUSAT Senegal, according to Seneweb sources.

Following a complaint from Sonatel's subcontracting company, the gendarmerie arrested Mr. Socé, Mr. Diop, CA Seck, C. Seck and CS. They are being prosecuted for criminal conspiracy, theft, complicity and receiving stolen lithium batteries and cables worth a provisional sum of 30 million CFA francs.

The investigation revealed that Mr. Socé, a technician at CAMUSAT Senegal, took advantage of his daily duties to steal batteries and cables. His modus operandi consisted of hiding equipment not used during the day to recover and resell later. He was assisted by Mr. Diop, who was responsible for approaching the receivers.

According to CAMUSAT Senegal, losses related to battery thefts amounted to 269,756,009 CFA francs between July 2023 and July 2025, while cable thefts caused losses of 132,226,400 CFA francs over the same period.

Investigations revealed that the loot was mainly sold to a Medina merchant, CA Seck, and his accomplices. They were buying the batteries at ridiculously low prices, 100,000 CFA francs each, while their actual cost is estimated at 800,000 CFA francs.

Thanks to a successful infiltration, a gendarme posed as a potential buyer, leading to the arrest of Mr. Diop in the act of delivering. The searches led to the seizure of 35 batteries, stolen cables, and a motorcycle.

Serious consequences for public service

Beyond the financial losses, these thefts undermine the continuity of public telecommunications services. The disruptions caused affect emergency services, civil security, hospitals, and the economy in general, threatening even national security.

In accordance with the instructions of the public prosecutor at the Pikine-Guédiawaye High Court, the five suspects were brought before the court on October 1, 2025.