Mauritania: Gay couple arrested in Nouakchott after marriage

Police in Mauritanian capital Nouakchott has detained a gay couple after their union sparked an outcry in the North African country, which criminalizes homosexuality.

The defendants are set to appear before a court, Moroccan news outlet le360.ma reports.

The Mauritanian penal code condemns homosexuality and convicts can face death penalty by stoning.

Police has detained several attendees in the wedding event, celebrated in a secret location. Videos and photos of what was interpreted as a birthday party showed boys wearing woman garments, makeup, high heels.

Though banned by law, the LGBT community in Mauritania has never come under threats. Members of the community are however marginalized and do no benefit from health assistance as HIV victims.