Investigation Widens into Alleged Misuse of Pandemic Relief Funds

The pursuit of individuals suspected of misappropriating funds allocated for the COVID-19 response in Senegal is intensifying. Following scrutiny of investments involving figures like Baba Hamdy, Abdou Aziz Mbaye, and Alimata Sadiya Gueye, law enforcement is now focusing on high-ranking officials within the Ministry of Health and Social Action.

Key Health Officials Summoned for Questioning

This Tuesday,six senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Social Action were called in for questioning by the Criminal Investigation Division (DIC). Those summoned include:

• Ousseynou Ngom, current Director of General Administration and Equipment (DAGE) of the ministry of Health
• Mamadou Ndiaye, Director of Prevention
• Babacar Sène, Director of the Regional Hospital of Kaffrine
• Moussa Sam Daff, Director of the Dalal Jamm hospital in Guédiaway
• Lamine Diallo, accountant in Rufisque
• Alioune Badara Diop, accountant at Pikine hospital

These individuals are suspected of diversion of public funds and falsification of documents.

Auditor General’s Report Sparks Investigation

The summonses follow a damning report by the Court of Auditors, which uncovered significant irregularities in the management of COVID-19 funds between 2020 and 2021. The report detailed instances of overbilling, unjustified expenditures, and an envelope of 19 billion FCFA (approximately $31.5 million USD) with no clear link to the pandemic response.The investigation also revealed that contracts were awarded under questionable circumstances, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. Moreover, the report highlighted suspicious discrepancies between the declared income and the assets of the implicated officials.

In its report, the Court of Auditors had recommended to the Keeper of the Seals the opening of a judicial information against the six officials for “faults deemed serious”.

Court of Auditors Report

Scale of the Investigation

The judicial investigation, led by the DIC, is extensive.To date, nearly 200 hearings have been conducted, and nine reports have been submitted to the prosecution. The case file reportedly weighs 400 kilos,underscoring the complexity and scope of the alleged financial mismanagement.

Further Scrutiny Expected

Sources indicate that other high-ranking officials and suppliers are also under surveillance as the investigation continues to unfold. The focus remains on ensuring accountability and recovering any misappropriated COVID-19 funds.