The Faidherbe Research Brigade of the Dakar gendarmerie company has dismantled a criminal network specializing in the illegal trafficking of butane gas. Six individuals were arrested on December 25, 2025, in Grand Yoff, according to Colonel Ibrahima Ndiaye.

The six suspects, all of Senegalese nationality, are being prosecuted for criminal association, prohibited business practices, fraud and endangering the lives of others.

The investigation uncovered a particularly sophisticated fraudulent scheme. The main suspect operates a butane gas distribution business in Grand Yoff, where he sells 6, 9, and 12-kilogram cylinders. He relies on five employees to carry out his operations.

An illegal transfer to the detriment of consumers

Meanwhile, an accomplice was running a clandestine shop at the terminus of the SICAP Liberté 5.

It was in this room that the full bottles were transferred into other containers before being handed over to the sellers. The amount of gas in the new bottles was systematically lower than normal, allowing the criminals to make significant illicit profits at the expense of consumers.

Acting on a tip, investigators set up a surveillance operation for two days before raiding the premises. The police caught the perpetrators in the act.

The operation resulted in the seizure of:

A total of 272 gas cylinders, including 93 full 12kg cylinders and 21 empty ones, as well as 158 full 9kg cylinders and 8 empty ones.

1 Renault truck

1 Peugeot Boxer vehicle

1 cart

1 horse.

The National Gendarmerie reminds the public that its call centre remains available free of charge 24/7 at the numbers 800 00 20 20 or 123 for any useful information to help fight crime.

This operation demonstrates the vigilance of the gendarmes of the Dakar Legion under the command of Colonel Malick Faye, in protecting consumers and fighting against dangerous commercial practices that endanger the lives of citizens.