Senegalese fans freed in Morocco after AFCON final violence sentences

Three Senegalese football fans have been released from prison in Morocco after completing three-month sentences linked to the unrest that overshadowed the Africa Cup of Nations final, local outlet Hespress reported on Saturday.

The trio walked out of Al-Arjat 2 prison, situated northeast of Rabat, under the supervision of the Royal Gendarmerie. They were transported to a police station near Salé, where the formalities of their release were completed.

Outside the station, officials from Senegal’s embassy were on hand to receive the fans, underscoring the diplomatic attention surrounding the case.

Speaking to AFP moments after his release, one of the supporters voiced an unexpected message of goodwill, chanting “Dima Maghreb” — Arabic for “Long live Morocco.”

Despite their release, legal proceedings continue to affect others involved. Fifteen Senegalese fans remain behind bars, serving sentences ranging from six months to one year after their appeals were rejected earlier in the week.

Authorities charged the group over their role in the disturbances, which included clashes with security forces, damage to stadium property, pitch invasions, and the throwing of objects during the final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

In a related development, a French national of Algerian origin was also released after serving a similar three-month sentence tied to the same incidents.