The prosecutor at the Ziguinchor Court of Appeal, recently requested a two-year prison sentence, a five-million CFA franc fine, and deportation for a sex worker accused of intentional HIV infection, in a case that has stirred widespread debate on social media.
A large crowd gathered outside the courthouse as the foreign national appeared before the bench. The court rejected the defense’s request for provisional release, which sought her placement in a specialized facility. The prosecution opposed the request, citing what it described as “persistent public disorder” around the case.
A nurse implicated in the same proceedings was also heard. The prosecutor requested a six-month suspended sentence.
Dozens of healthcare workers assembled outside the court to express support for their colleague and denounce what they view as unfounded stigmatization.
After the closing arguments, the court adjourned the verdict to 2 December 2025.
