A police officer was killed during clashes between Senegalese security forces and supporters of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko in the southern town of Ziguinchor, authorities said.
The clashes occurred on Monday near Mr Sonko's home, where he has been staying while vowing to defy any summons to appear in court for a rape trial.
Supporters have surrounded his home since last week, fearing police would move to arrest him and bring him to court.
A statement from the Senegalese interior ministry said the police officer was “accidentally hit by a vehicle”, during the Monday violence.
Reports say security has been tightened in the capital Dakar ahead of the resumption of Mr Sonko's rape trial on Tuesday.
He was charged based on a woman's accusations that he assaulted her when she worked at a massage salon two years ago.
Mr Sonko and his allies deny the charges and say they are a ploy to bar him from contesting the 2024 presidential election.
He was handed a six-month suspended sentence on 8 May for defaming Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang in a review of the initial two-month term.
Latest Stories
-
Sam Larry in police custody over Mohbad’s death probe
2 mins -
Livestream: Newsfile discusses Alan Kyerematen and impact of DDEP
35 mins -
BoG Governor signs book of condolence in memory of late Ga Manye
46 mins -
Man fakes his own kidnapping to hide infidelity from girlfriend
12 hours -
Accra 2023: LOC presents transportation plan to Technical Committee of African Games
12 hours -
My fashion career was birthed after deferring my course due to my father’s death – Elikem The Tailor
13 hours -
Meet 6 inspiring SHS girls who defied the odds to become community service champions
13 hours -
Opticians in Ghana decry lack of tools for professionals under training
13 hours -
EC can extend registration for peace to prevail in Bawku – CODEO
14 hours -
Niger attack: Soldiers killed by hundreds of jihadists in Kandadji
14 hours -
Acting was never my plan, it just happened – Mawuli Gavor
14 hours -
2023 GFA Elections: George Afriyie files application for injunction on Elective Congress
14 hours -
Ken Agyapong will support Bawumia if he loses – Government spokesperson on governance
14 hours -
Senior Police officers in Oforikrom receive training on RTI Act
15 hours -
This Saturday on Newsfile
15 hours