Kidira: The director of a private school complex was arrested for illegally occupying a former health center that was in danger of collapsing.

On November 3, 2026, the Kidira territorial gendarmerie brigade arrested AD SYLLA, 49 years old. A business owner, he manages the Académie le Cursus school complex, formerly known as Léopold Sédar Senghor. He is being prosecuted for operating a private school without authorization, illegally occupying property belonging to others, and endangering the lives of others. He was brought before Prosecutor Aliou Dia, head of the Tambacounda High Court, on Wednesday, November 4.

The case originates from the occupation of the outbuildings of the municipality of Kidira. According to information gathered by the gendarmes from the secretary general of the town hall, Mr. Fadeh, these premises formerly housed the commune's health center.

Due to their age and dilapidated condition, the health district had been relocated to another site. Once the new health facility was built, the old building was abandoned.

Over the course of the rainy seasons, the structure deteriorated further. The paving stones could no longer withstand the elements, and stagnant water seeped inside. Faced with this situation, the residents requested that the site be transformed into a public square. The municipal council then met and ruled on this request, according to the minutes of the meeting.

According to the municipality, AD SYLLA, a contractor, allegedly took advantage of the situation to oppose the council's decision and establish a private school on the site. He reportedly appointed a responsible representative without completing the formalities required for a declaration of intent to open a school.

Mr. Fadeh states that following the deliberation, AD SYLLA received a letter from the municipality requesting them to vacate premises that were in danger of collapse, as they posed a risk to students. The secretary general explains that, due to a lack of resources, particularly equipment, the demolition had to be carried out during the summer holidays.

When the equipment became available, the municipality noted that the individual in question had not complied with the eviction notice. To avoid damaging the portion he occupied, they demolished only the unoccupied areas that were in danger of collapse. They then posted security guards to monitor the property of AD SYLLA, who was occupying the premises without legal right or permit, pending a court decision.

The accused's version

When questioned by the police, AD SYLLA stated that the building had been given to him by an association of Kidira natives called Arakef. However, he presented no contract or document to substantiate his claim. When asked about the documentation related to his establishment's presence on the site, he was unable to provide any proof whatsoever, according to Seneweb sources close to the case.

For operating a school without authorization or a receipt, and for endangering the lives of others, AD SYLLA was informed of his rights regarding his arrest. He was then taken into custody. Following the investigation, he was brought before Prosecutor Aliou Dia, head of the public prosecutor's office at the Tambacounda High Court, on Wednesday, November 4.