Moroccan prosecutors have requested prison sentences of up to two years for 18 Senegalese football supporters detained in Rabat following unrest at last month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The fans have been in custody since January 18, the day of the tense final between Senegal and Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Senegal defeated the hosts 1-0 to clinch the continental title.
According to prosecutors, the accused supporters engaged in acts described as “hooliganism” and deliberately attempted to disrupt the smooth conduct of the match.
The court heard that some of the incidents were captured live on television during the closing minutes of the game.
Trouble erupted shortly before the final whistle, with reports that some Senegalese fans tried to invade the pitch.
Senegal’s players also temporarily halted play for nearly 20 minutes in protest over a late penalty awarded to Morocco. Objects, including a chair, were allegedly thrown onto the field during the chaos.
The prosecution said its case is supported by stadium surveillance footage and medical reports detailing injuries sustained by security personnel and stadium stewards.
Authorities also estimated material damage to the stadium at more than 4 million Moroccan dirhams, roughly $430,000.
The defendants have denied wrongdoing.
The incident comes at a sensitive time for Morocco, which is preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
