TikToker Iba Der Dang, better known as Aliyas Sérère, appeared before the Thiès court on Friday, May 22. The 25-year-old driver was prosecuted for collecting and disseminating personal data and for defamation committed via a computer system.

The defendant was arrested by the Special Cyber Division (DSC) following several complaints filed against him. He is accused of broadcasting, during TikTok Live videos, images of people claiming to be able to multiply money, while hurling insults at them.

In court, Aliyas Sérère admitted to the facts while attempting to justify his actions. According to him, he wanted to raise awareness among internet users about the practices of certain charlatans and swindlers promising to make money through magic.

"I wanted to raise awareness among young people. These are victims, often immigrants, who asked me to denounce these practices," he explained in court, asserting that he was not seeking to harm the people targeted.

The judge reminded him, however, that it was not his place to replace law enforcement. He also criticized him for using social media irresponsibly, emphasizing that an influencer should be beneficial to society and set an example.

The civil parties, SB Fall, M. Diakhaté, SM Seck and M. Dieng, were not present at the hearing.

In his closing argument, the public prosecutor stated that the facts were clearly established. He considered that the defendant's actions had damaged the honor and dignity of the plaintiffs. The prosecution requested a six-month prison sentence, a fine of 500,000 FCFA, and the confiscation of the defendant's two mobile phones.

The defense, led by El Hadji Diouf, pleaded for leniency. The lawyer argued that while his client had indeed made a mistake, he had acted in a context where online insults have become commonplace. He also drew on his own experience, stating that he himself had been subjected to insults and harassment for several years during the Adji Sarr case.

At the end of the proceedings, the court found Aliyas Sérère guilty and sentenced him to one year in prison, with three months to be served. His two mobile phones were also confiscated and given to the state.