Rabat — Morocco’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has issued a stern warning following violent incidents during GenZ212 protests.
The prosecutor’s statement warned that acts of violence, vandalism, and arson constitute serious crimes that carry heavy prison sentences.
Ahmed Ouali Alami, president of the Public Action and Penal Policy Monitoring Unit at the Public Prosecutor’s Office, made clear that such actions fall outside the boundaries of free expression and violate the country’s criminal code.
“The acts of vandalism, arson, and violence that damaged public and private property and harmed people’s physical safety during unauthorized demonstrations have nothing to do with any form of free expression,” Ouali Alami told Morocco’s press agency (MAP).
He described vandalism and violence as “criminal acts,” which under Morocco’s penal code “carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years.”
When aggravating circumstances exist, sentences can reach 30 years or even life imprisonment in certain cases.
The official stressed that these incidents primarily threaten citizens’ security and safety, as well as their property.
He also pointed out that authorities must firmly enforce the law to protect people’s security and peace of mind against such violent acts.
The warning comes as Morocco’s Public Prosecutor’s Office responds to disturbances that occurred during GenZ212 demonstrations, originally meant to be peaceful.
The statement draws a clear line between legitimate protest and criminal behavior, signaling that authorities will prosecute those who engage in destruction and violence.
The GenZ212 movement, which initially organized the protests, distanced itself from the acts of violence and vandalism, reiterating their legitimate cause for demanding reform in education and healthcare.
The recent escalation into vandalism and violence has prompted the authorities’ strong response.
Demonstrators in Sale escalated the tone last night, breaking into a bank branch and supermarket, while others pelted security service vehicles with stones and caused extensive damage.
In the central south of Morocco, the situation grew very violent. Rioters allegedly tried to break into the Royal Gendarmerie’s office in Lqliaa, in an attempt to “seize ammunition and firearms,” leaving three deaths.
