By Jamal Saidi
By Jamal Saidi
Morocco World News
Casablanca, September 15, 2012
The US consulate in Casablanca adopted strict security measures in fear of any emergency, especially after a vigil organized on Wednesday in front of the consulate following the provocative film offending the prophet of Islam, Assabah reported on Friday.
Sources revealed to the daily that high cooperation between Moroccan and American security services is taking place in order to avoid any further developments, especially after the wave of sweeping anti-American protests in the Arab world. In this regard, reports were sent to the officials concerning the number and the political affiliation of the participants in Casablanca protest.
The security services were concerned about the use of masks and black flags during the protest, scenes that were reminiscent of the violent demonstrations in Egypt and Libya.
The US embassy of the United States to Morocco announced on Tuesday a high alert in anticipation of any terrorist act against its interest, urging its citizens to avoid gatherings and attendance of some spaces such as churches, theaters, restaurants and schools.
In a message to the US citizens issued on Friday, the embassy said that about 300 protestors joined the demonstration in front of the US consulate in Casablanca and by the end of the vigil they began throwing rocks and bottles. The Moroccan police arrested 10 people and two officers were injured, the American diplomatic mission added.
Although Morocco is comparatively safe, the previous protests and the affiliations of the participants seemed to have necessitated intensification of security measures.
