Senegal Fans Protest Jailing of Supporters in Morocco

On a Saturday in Dakar, Senegal, hundreds of fans protested against the jailing of 18 Senegalese supporters in Morocco after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. The supporters were convicted of hooliganism by a Moroccan court earlier in the month, receiving prison sentences ranging from three months to one year.

The unrest occurred during the final match on February 19, where Senegal triumphed over Morocco 1-0 in extra time. Tensions escalated when Morocco was awarded a penalty, leading to clashes between Senegalese fans and security personnel as they attempted to reach the pitch.

The protest was organized in response to the prison terms handed down, with demonstrators waving flags and holding placards. Ousmane Sonko, a prominent Senegalese political figure, called for the release of the 18 supporters, emphasizing the need for security measures to be taken for their return.