Deaths from non-criminal causes are a major concern for Senegalese security authorities. Data published by the National Gendarmerie for 2025 paints a worrying picture marked by the continued occurrence of drownings and suicides, two phenomena with devastating human consequences. "In the past year, 140 people lost their lives by drowning, while 49 suicides were recorded, for a total of 189 deaths. Although these figures remain lower than those for other causes of accidental death, they reflect the existence of tragedies that are often silent and difficult to prevent," explained Lieutenant Abdoulaye Camara, Head of the Gendarmerie's Operations and Intelligence Center, on Thursday, February 12, during the presentation ceremony for the Gendarmerie's 2025 report.

According to Gendarmerie statistics, drownings remain strongly linked to maritime and river activities, as well as swimming in unsafe areas. Coastal communities and towns located near waterways appear particularly vulnerable. In response to this reality, territorial units have intensified awareness campaigns among at-risk populations, especially in fishing areas and water sports facilities.

Suicides, meanwhile, predominantly involve adult men, highlighting social and psychological issues that are still insufficiently addressed. These tragedies underscore the importance of strengthening support systems for listening, psychological assistance, and the prevention of mental health disorders.

Geographic analysis reveals that the regions of Thiès, Tambacounda, Kédougou, Ziguinchor, and Dakar are among the most affected areas. This situation calls for strengthened prevention measures and improved coordination between security services, health facilities, and community stakeholders. More broadly, deaths from non-criminal causes have increased significantly. In 2025, 863 cases were recorded, compared to 717 in 2024, confirming an upward trend that underscores the need for authorities to intensify awareness and prevention efforts.

In this context, the National Gendarmerie prioritizes an approach combining prevention, assistance and regulation, through information campaigns, reinforced patrols in at-risk areas and rapid interventions in the event of an incident.

Beyond the security response, specialists emphasize that the fight against drownings and suicides requires a multi-sectoral mobilization involving health authorities, local authorities, community organizations and families.

The goal is to reduce these human tragedies by strengthening risk education, monitoring sensitive areas, and improving access to psychological support services. Given the evolving nature of these phenomena, security authorities emphasize the need for collective vigilance to better protect populations and prevent these avoidable tragedies.