Pape Malick Sarr better known as “Diantal Mara,” who gained a large following on TikTok, notably appearing with a snake around his neck, finds himself at the centre of a serious legal case.
According to L’Observateur newspaper, two women have filed complaints against him accusing him of rape resulting in pregnancy, death threats, and assault.
Police in Bargny, 15km east of Dakar, headed by Commissioner Babacar Ly, have taken him into custody.
According to L’Observateur, the marabout, who lives in Touba but is based in Bargny, had built a significant following on TikTok. In several videos, he appeared with a snake around his neck to showcase his supposed mystical powers.
According to the newspaper, he is now being investigated for death threats, rape resulting in pregnancy, and assault causing six days of temporary incapacity for work.
The case reportedly began with a complaint filed on 14th April, 2026, by S Gaye, a woman who works at a bank. She explained that she discovered Diantal Mara on TikTok, where he presented himself as a marabout with exceptional powers.
Wanting to receive prayers, she made an appointment with him in Bargny. According to her account as reported by L’Observateur, the marabout then took her to the Diamniadio forest under the pretext of performing mystical baths.
The complainant claimed that the situation then took a turn for the worse accusing the marabout of attempting to have sex with her. When she refused, he allegedly brandished a knife and threatened to kill her. She also claims to have been injured during the confrontation. The injuries reportedly resulted in a six-day work incapacity certificate.
A second complaint was subsequently filed by B Diallo, a mother. She accused the marabout of sexually abusing her daughter under the guise of traditional healing. A pregnancy was subsequently discovered.
Having learned that he was wanted, Diantal Mara reportedly left Bargny and was arrested in Touba.
L’Observateur reported that during his interrogation, he allegedly confessed to the charges against him. Regarding the young woman, he reportedly admitted to having had sexual relations with her while her mother was away. He also allegedly acknowledged the incident involving S Gaye in the Diamniadio forest, while claiming he was under the influence of alcohol.
Investigators from the Bargny police station are continuing their investigation. According to the newspaper, the police are not ruling out the possibility that other individuals may come forward in the coming days.
As things stand, the accusations remain subject to judicial review. The suspect remains in custody while the investigation continues.
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