The Senegalese government has officially responded to the arrest of 18 of its nationals in Morocco following disturbances that broke out after the Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and the host nation, Morocco.
The continental showpiece was marred by riots and scenes of chaos, prompting Moroccan authorities to detain several Senegalese supporters in Rabat on suspicion of involvement in the unrest.
In the aftermath, Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, appealed for calm and restraint.
In a message shared on social media, Sonko disclosed that he had held extensive discussions with his Moroccan counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch, as both governments worked to de-escalate tensions.
“We agreed, on the instructions of King Mohammed VI and President Basiru Diomaye Diojar Faye, to continue working, quietly, to strengthen the deep ties that unite our two countries,” Sonko said.
Addressing the situation of those arrested, the Prime Minister assured the public that the matter was being handled at the highest level.
“The Senegalese government is closely monitoring, together with the consular and diplomatic authorities and the Moroccan authorities, the situation of the fans detained in Rabat as well as the citizens residing in Morocco,” he shared.
He further urged the public to be cautious about information circulating online, warning that social media was awash with what he described as mostly “information and misinformation.”
According to Sonko, the incident should not be allowed to strain relations between the two nations.
“This incident, under any circumstances, cannot go beyond the simple sporting framework. Our common challenges are much greater,” he added.
