Prosecutor seeks one-year prison sentence for actor Arona Benga in drug case
During a hearing on August 11, 2026, at the Rufisque correctional court, the public prosecutor requested a one-year prison sentence for actor Amadou Bia Sow, known as Arona Benga, and Maguette Cissé, in a drug-related case. The prosecutor also sought three-year prison sentences for Mamadou Thiam and Abdoulaye Diassy. Arona Benga, who appeared under provisional release, admitted to drug use but denied being anything more than a consumer. Maguette Cissé denied the charge of drug use. Mamadou Thiam and Abdoulaye Diassy, who are incarcerated for drug possession, offering, and transfer, presented different defenses. Mamadou Thiam denied offering and transferring drugs, admitting only to being a user, while Abdoulaye Diassy denied all charges. The prosecutor emphasized that the facts were established and made no distinction for the celebrity status of Arona Benga. The defense requested leniency for all defendants. The court has adjourned the case for deliberation, with a verdict expected on September 15, 2026.
