The Court of First Instance at the Court of Appeal in Rabat issued a verdict on Monday evening, sentencing an accused to five years in prison for insulting the judicial police officer in connection with the football-related riots that took place in March of last year.
The court charged the accused, who participated in attacks on members of the public forces during a football match between the Royal Army and Morocco Fes in Rabat, with “forming a criminal gang and insulting the judicial police.”
In October 2022, the same Court of First Instance ruled on this case, which involved 63 accused, 59 of whom were held in custody.
The sentences ranged from acquittal to two years in prison, specifically for charges such as “vandalism of facilities within the framework of groups using force, aggravated theft, obstructing the movement of vehicles on the public road, and committing intentional violence during a sports event.”
The decision to hand a five-year prison sentence underscores the gravity of the accused’s actions, particularly in relation to the attack on law enforcement personnel during a football match.
The court’s stance aims to send a strong message about the severe consequences individuals may face for engaging in violent behavior within the context of sports events.
