Rabat, December 29, 2012 (MAP)
Rabat, December 29, 2012 (MAP)
Thirty people were arrested Friday in Marrakech while participating in an unauthorized protest, during which they engaged in acts of violence and vandalism, causing injuries among citizens and the police force, said a statement from the Ministry of Interior.
During this protest, organized in the neighborhood of Sidi Youssef Ben Ali in Marrakech, protestors “threw stones causing injuries among citizens and the police,” the statement said, adding that “the police intervened to disperse unauthorized demonstrations and arrested thirty people who have engaged in acts of violence and vandalism.”
Demonstrators meant to protest electricity bill hikes, said the same source.
The Interior Ministry said that since 2011, the Marrakech water and electricity utility (RADEEMA), in coordination with local authorities and in consultation with representatives of the population concerned, has taken a series of measures “to alleviate the burden of electricity bills benefitting the poorest households.”
According to the same source, these measures have resulted in a considerable financial impact on RADEEMA budget through the accumulation of arrears of more than 100 milion dirhams, including 30 million dirhams registered at the Sidi Youssef Ben Ali branch.
The Ministry said “the dialogue initiated by RADEEMA with citizens’ representatives, in coordination with local authorities, remains the appropriate means to settle contentious cases that remain unresolved.”
“The public authorities also reaffirm their determination to continue to fulfill their mission of maintaining order in full compliance with the laws in force to ensure the safety of citizens and the protection of their property,” concluded the statement.
