# Dakar crackdown on begging and public space occupation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dakar-crackdown-on-begging-and-public-space-occupation
> Updated: 2026-08-19T16:48:51.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Authorities in Dakar have intensified efforts to clear public spaces of begging activities and makeshift shelters. In late July, the gendarmerie dismantled shelters in the BOA district used by foreign-origin beggars, an action prompted by public pressure following online activism.

By mid-August, police operations expanded significantly. A major intervention resulted in the arrest of 234 people, including 105 children, across several locations such as Colobane and the Place de l'Obélisque. While officials describe these as ‘humanized security actions’ aimed at addressing safety concerns and street congestion, human rights organizations have raised concerns regarding increased xenophobic rhetoric associated with the crackdown.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Dakar police arrest 234 people in crackdown on begging

Police in Dakar arrested 234 people, including 105 children, during an operation to clear public spaces of beggars, amid concerns from rights groups regarding potential xenophobia.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dakar-police-arrest-234-people-in-crackdown-on-begging

### 2026-07-24: Dakar Gendarmerie Dismantles Beggar Shelters in BOA District

Dakar’s gendarmerie cleared makeshift beggar shelters in the BOA district on 24 July, after viral video activism spurred calls for stronger enforcement and social aid.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dakar-gendarmerie-dismantles-beggar-shelters-in-boa-district

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Cite as: Dakar crackdown on begging and public space occupation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dakar-crackdown-on-begging-and-public-space-occupation