Eighteen Senegalese supporters arrested in Morocco have been questioned by the Court of First Instance in Rabat, in the absence of their lawyers, with closing arguments scheduled for next week.
The fans, detained since January 18, were heard on Thursday, February 12, over the substance of the charges against them.
The hearing lasted five hours, during which the court reviewed the case despite the absence of defense counsel.
The court has now scheduled the date for pleadings on Thursday, February 19, 2026, when the supporters’ lawyers will be able to formally contest the charges and present their arguments.
The unusual circumstances arose because of a lawyers’ strike, which had prevented regular proceedings from taking place.
The strike officially ended on February 12, allowing the court to resume hearings, although this session did not constitute a final judgment.
Observers noted that conducting the questioning without legal representation raises sensitive concerns about the protection of the defendants’ rights.
Families and supporters in Senegal have been closely monitoring developments, expressing concern over the conduct of the proceedings.
The February 19 hearing is expected to be decisive, as the defense will have the opportunity to fully engage in the trial process and ensure the rights of the accused are upheld.
The case has attracted attention both domestically and internationally, highlighting issues surrounding legal representation, procedural fairness, and the treatment of foreign nationals in Moroccan courts.
Authorities have emphasized that the next session will allow the lawyers to participate fully, marking a critical step in the legal process for the 18 Senegalese supporters.
As the trial moves forward, all eyes will be on Rabat next week, when the court will hear the closing arguments that could determine the fate of the defendants.
