Senegal fans in Morocco refuse medication over prison conditions

Eighteen Senegal national football team supporters detained in Morocco since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final have refused medical treatment in protest over their reported prison conditions.

The group has remained in custody following incidents linked to the final, in which Morocco national football team defeated Senegal 1-0.

Their situation has now drawn renewed concern after an association representing supporters raised alarm about their health and treatment.

In a statement, the Rufisque-based ASC Lebougui Dangou described what it called deteriorating detention conditions, particularly focusing on the handling of medical care for those who are unwell.

According to reports, the association claims that instead of receiving appropriate treatment, detainees are being given medication intended only to induce sleep.

It also alleges that repeated requests to access proper medical facilities or to be transferred to hospital have not been granted.

As a result, a breakdown in trust has reportedly developed between the detained supporters and prison medical staff. The group has now decided to refuse the medication altogether, a move that has heightened fears about their wellbeing.

The association has warned that the situation could worsen if no immediate action is taken, raising concerns that the lack of adequate care may lead to serious consequences.

The supporters were arrested after disturbances following the Africa Cup of Nations final and have been facing charges including hooliganism, violence, throwing projectiles and vandalism. They deny all allegations.

In initial proceedings, they were handed prison sentences ranging from three months to one year. However, the legal process remains ongoing, with an appeal hearing opened in Rabat on 16 March.

That hearing has since been postponed to 30 March at the request of the defence, leaving the group still in detention as they await further developments in their case.

The situation continues to attract attention as concerns persist over both the legal process and the reported conditions of their imprisonment.