Morocco Releases Three Senegalese AFCON Supporters

Morocco released three Senegalese football supporters from prison on April 18 after they completed three-month sentences for their roles in violent disturbances during the Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat. The men, part of a group arrested following the January 18 match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, were freed from Al Arjat 2 prison northeast of the capital and transported to a police station for final processing before rejoining family and supporters.

The releases mark the end of the shortest terms among 18 individuals convicted in connection with the unrest, which erupted late in the game amid tensions over refereeing decisions. Court records indicate the supporters faced charges of hooliganism, including attempts to invade the pitch, throwing projectiles, violence against security forces, and damage to stadium facilities. Players briefly left the field as chaos spread in the stands and on the pitch, but the match resumed after a delay. Moroccan authorities acted swiftly, detaining suspects on site and prosecuting the cases within weeks.

Upon exiting the police station, the three men, visibly relieved, were greeted by officials from the Senegalese Embassy. One...