Senegal Erupts In Dakar: Fans Protest Jailing Of 18 AFCON Supporters In Morocco [Photos]

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Dakar on Saturday, calling for the release of 18 Senegalese supporters imprisoned in Rabat following disturbances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in January.

Waving national flags and holding placards, demonstrators marched through Senegal’s capital, chanting slogans demanding the fans’ freedom, according to Ireporter Online. The protest was sparked by prison sentences handed down by a Moroccan court earlier this month.

The 18 supporters were convicted of hooliganism on February 19, receiving terms ranging from three months to one year in jail. The unrest occurred during the final when Morocco was awarded a penalty, leading some Senegalese fans to clash with security in an attempt to reach the pitch.

Nine of the supporters received one-year sentences and fines of 460 euros (approximately 544 dollars) each. Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, described the punishment as excessive, stating in parliament that Morocco’s handling of the situation “does not honour” bilateral relations. He added that Senegal was actively pursuing the release of its nationals.

On the field, Senegal ultimately claimed the AFCON title with a 1-0 victory after extra time, following a missed penalty by Morocco’s Brahim Díaz in the tense finale.