The Senegalese Police on August 27, 2008, arrested nine men suspected of perpetrating attacks on two privately-owned, Dakar-based newspapers.
On August 17, 2008, the offices’ of 24 Heures Chrono and L’As newpapers, were ransacked by assailants who arrived in a white Toyota L200 bearing official Senegalese Government registration numbers. They forced their way into the offices, attacked staff members and destroyed computer equipment.

The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA)’s correspondent reported that on August 27 police arrested nine men allegedly involved in the attacks, three of whom were identified with the help of a staff member at L’As who was beaten up during the attack.

The Police have since revealed that some of the attackers had told them they were paid 250,000 CFA (approximately US$600) by Senegalese Transport Minister, Faraba Senghore to carry out the attack.

Minister Senghore’s nephew is also believed to have been involved in the attack and is currently in Police custody.

Media Foundation for West Africa