A family tragedy of rare violence occurred on November 17, 2020 in Sandiara. On that day, in Sinthiou-Godaguène, D. Sène took the life of his father, L. Sène, in particularly disturbing circumstances.

According to the case file, the accused allegedly struck his father a violent blow to the head before piercing his throat with an iron bar. During the investigation, he claimed to have acted under the influence of a strange conviction, stating that his father "wanted to take his soul."

D. Sène's family maintains that he suffers from mental illness. However, the doctor who examined the accused concluded that, despite his psychiatric disorders, he was aware of his actions at the time of the events.

An audience marked by confused answers

The presiding judge of the criminal chamber of the Mbour High Court demonstrated patience and perspicacity in her attempt to understand the defendant's motives. When questioned about his father's whereabouts, Daouda Sène replied that he didn't know "where he is or what happened." When directly asked about the reasons for the murder, he stated, "That's what's still strange in my mind. He was my friend."

Speaking about his relationship with the victim, he emphasized their close bond and deep friendship. "My father was my greatest friend. What he could do for me, no one else could," explained D. Sène. When questioned about his beliefs, particularly those related to cannibalism, he stated that he did not believe in it, while attributing his actions to "divine will." He did, however, express regret: "I don't want to do it again," he told the judge.

The public prosecutor, while requesting mitigating circumstances from the chamber, requested a sentence of 10 years' imprisonment.

The defense, led by Elimane Amar Kane, emphasized the defendant's mental state. "What sane person could allow themselves to kill their father?" the lawyer asked. He also reiterated the medical findings that D. Sène poses a danger to himself and others. The report recommends his confinement in a specialized facility so that he can receive appropriate care.

The verdict in this case is scheduled for May 15th.