18 Senegalese supporters detained in Morocco after AFCON final start hunger strike
Eighteen Senegalese football supporters who were detained in Morocco following the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final have reportedly begun a hunger strike to protest their continued detention and demand their release.
According to reports, the supporters were arrested in the aftermath of the AFCON final after clashes and disturbances broke out around the stadium and nearby areas. Moroccan authorities accused the group of public disorder and other related offences, allegations the detainees and their representatives dispute.
Sources close to the detained supporters said the hunger strike began after several days in custody, with the group claiming they have not been formally charged or given clear information about their legal status. They are reportedly demanding fair treatment, access to legal representation, and either immediate release or a transparent judicial process.
Families of the detained fans and Senegalese community groups have expressed growing concern over their welfare, particularly as the hunger strike continues. Calls have also been made for diplomatic intervention by Senegalese authorities to ensure the rights and safety of their citizens.
Moroccan officials have yet to issue a detailed public statement on the hunger strike but have maintained that all arrests made after the match were in accordance with the law. Security agencies in Morocco said they acted to restore order following post-match unrest involving groups of supporters.
The AFCON final, which attracted thousands of fans from across the continent, was largely peaceful, but isolated incidents of crowd trouble were reported after the match. Such incidents have occasionally followed high-profile football games, especially when emotions run high.
Football observers and human rights advocates have urged calm and dialogue, stressing that sporting events should not result in prolonged detentions without due process. They also called on both countries to work together diplomatically to resolve the situation.
As of the time of reporting, the 18 Senegalese supporters remain in custody, with negotiations reportedly ongoing. The situation continues to draw attention across West Africa, as concerns grow over the health of the detainees and the handling of the case.
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