Police in Casablanca arrested a man accused of using multiple social media accounts to incite unauthorized protests in Morocco.
A statement from the public prosecutor office said investigators found that the man posted videos and photos of violent demonstrations abroad, presenting them as local events to encourage people to take to the streets.
The man admitted that his main goal was to gain followers and make financial profit, rather than actively participate in the protests.
The statement said that within just three days, the man managed to reach 4,000 followers on his social media account ; his goal was to reach 20,000 so that he could create a digital platform.
The statement cited expert analysis of the man’s personal computer, revealing a collection of video sequences from sit-ins that took place in certain foreign countries – linking them to the demonstrations that took place recently in Morocco.
“These clips had been edited and reposted on his social media accounts in order to attract more views and subscribers,” the statement said.
It added that the suspect has been taken into custody for further investigation.
He is facing charges such as incitement to commit crimes and offenses.
Moroccan cities like Rabat and Casablanca witnessed youth-led protests that were met by security crackdown.
Videos on social media show security services arresting youth for their participation in the protests, which led to a solidarity campaign from politicians, celebrities and citizens alike.
The protests urge the government to meet socio-economic demands, including adequate healthcare and quality education.
While protesters emphasize the importance of events like the World Cup and AFCON, the protests came to stress that organizing similar events are as important as their basic rights and dignity.
