At least 193 individuals have been prosecuted for their alleged involvement in vandalism and violent acts as peaceful demonstrations turned chaotic in several major cities and provinces across Morocco.
Today, Moroccan judge Zakaria announced receiving an investigation request for 18 suspects, 16 of whom had been remanded in custody.
The judge also said that 19 individuals were prosecuted while in detention due to their alleged involvement in “serious” acts, noting that some of them were under the influence of drugs.
Around 158 people were prosecuted while on provisional release, and the cases of 24 individuals were closed.
Some individuals were released following interrogation.
Cities and towns across Morocco have witnessed protests since Saturday. Initiated by young people demanding better life quality and improved social services, the protests began peacefully with calls for the government to guarantee basic rights such as good healthcare and educational reforms.
The initial weekend protests were met with arrests and dispersal, leading to anger and frustration among citizens.
However, the protests have become chaotic in recent days. Many videos online show young people engaging in vandalism and rioting, targeting businesses such as banks and local shops.
This has caused panic, including among youth leaders who had called for peaceful protests.
Politicians and many citizens are now urging young people to exercise restraint and stop the violent protests that could harm Morocco’s stability and security.
Meanwhile, even as they appear to strike a more conciliatory tone in response to Gen Z demands, the authorities have also vowed to continue taking action against anyone involved in illegal actions.
Earlier today, Morocco’s Ministry of the Interior announced that security forces across the country had placed 409 individuals in judicial custody following recent protests.
A ministry spokesperson justified the arrests, stressing that the arrestees violated public security measures.
According to the spokesperson, the protestors arrested but not placed in judicial custody were briefly detained for identity verification purposes and released once legal procedures had been completed.
Those who “insisted on violating security arrangements” were dealt with according to the law.
The ministry further revealed that over 200 security personnel were injured during violent clashes. However, the statement did not mention whether – and how many – protesters also sustained injuries during the clashes.
