The Keur Massar gendarmerie's research brigade has dismantled a major online fraud network. Two people have been arrested: Mr. Traoré, an accountant born in 1984, and Mr. Thiam, a debt collector born in 1994. These two employees of Leaders BusinessCo have been taken into custody for conspiracy and online fraud. Their network involved hundreds of victims.

The gendarmerie received information about a network based in the Apix housing project near Tivaouane-Peulh. It operated under the name "Leaders BusinessCo." The fraudsters used two mobile applications: Lekol Credit and Credit Levier, available on the Play Store and Apple Store. Their modus operandi was well-rehearsed. They offered loans of 8,500 CFA francs to people in need. However, in reality, the client only received 5,500 CFA francs. The remaining 3,000 CFA francs were deducted as fees, and the loan was due for repayment within seven days. The interest rate applied reached 45%. In case of late payment, daily fines were added to the debt.

These fraudulent practices have gone viral on social media. They have trapped many vulnerable people across the country.

According to information gathered, the criminals initially rented an apartment in Ngor. To better conceal their activities, they moved to the Apix housing complex, a secluded area away from prying eyes. Furthermore, the company lacked any license authorizing it to conduct credit activities. Everything was clandestine.

Two Ivorians at the head of the network

The investigation revealed the masterminds behind this scam. They are Mr. Toglo and B. Trouyal, both Ivorian nationals. They ran the network from abroad and relied on their Senegalese accomplices, MS Thiam and M. Traoré. The latter were responsible for recruiting and training the debt collectors.

On October 30, 2025, the gendarmes raided the premises located in the Apix housing estate. They discovered an unmarked house being used as an office. Inside, several tables were set up. Cell phones were available for the staff. Phone numbers were posted on the wall. The staff were busy contacting borrowers who were behind on their payments, whom they referred to as "bad payers."

The elusive patterns

During their arrest, Ms. Thiam and Mr. Traoré stated that their employers, Mr. Toglo and Mr. Trouyal, were outside of Senegal. They communicated with them only via WhatsApp. The two suspects were taken into custody by the gendarmerie, and the equipment found at the scene was seized as evidence.

The Dakar Gendarmerie Legion, under the command of Colonel Malick Faye, continues its fight against crime and delinquency. This operation demonstrates the determination of law enforcement to protect citizens from online scams.

The investigation continues to identify all the victims and find the main perpetrators who are currently on the run abroad.