Authorities Detain Suspects Over Vandalism, Arson in Sale During Protests

Rabat – Moroccan authorities have referred a group of individuals involved in vandalism, arson, and theft in the city of Sale to the investigating judge at the Court of Appeal in Rabat. 

According to the public prosecutor, the suspects have been placed in pre-trial detention while investigations continue to identify and apprehend others involved in these acts, local media reported.

The developments come amid the ongoing Gen Z protests, which began on Saturday and have spread across cities throughout Morocco. Led by groups such as GenZ212, the protests call for improvements in health and education. 

While the first three days of demonstrations were peaceful, police suppression, including mass detentions and efforts to violently disperse crowds, was reported.

After the initial peaceful days, the protests took a violent turn. Many demonstrations saw looting, vandalism, and arson targeting shops, vehicles, and both private and public property. 

Authorities reported significant property damage during these clashes, and hundreds of injuries were recorded among both protesters and security forces.

A protester was run over by police in Oujda and lost one leg. He remains in critical condition with risks to his remaining leg. 

Meanwhile, gendarmerie forces in Inzegane-Ait Melloul said they used live fire in self-defense to stop a group attempting to seize ammunition and equipment from their Lqliaa post. The incident killed three and caused multiple injuries.

Groups that initially organized the protests, such as GenZ212, have publicly condemned the violent actions and stated that the protests were meant to remain peaceful and focus on social demands.

As authorities investigate the violent incidents, demonstrators across Morocco continue calling for systemic reforms in health and education.