Court of Appeal Postpones Case of Algerian and 18 Senegalese Fans to March 30; Defense Demands Provisional Release

The Rabat Court of Appeal has decided to postpone the hearing in the case involving an Algerian fan and 18 Senegalese fans, who are accused of inciting riots and committing acts of violence during the Africa Cup of Nations final, until March 30.

The defense for those initially convicted following the incidents at the Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco had previously submitted a request to the judicial panel at the Rabat Court of Appeal for their provisional release.

The Rabat Court of First Instance had previously sentenced four fans to four months in prison and a fine of 1,200 dirhams. Six other fans were sentenced to six months in prison and a fine of 2,000 dirhams, while nine others received 12-month prison sentences and fines of 5,000 dirhams.

The defendants were prosecuted for inciting riots during the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Charges also included committing acts of violence against security personnel and volunteers, storming the pitch, and damaging sports equipment.

It is worth noting that the defense for the Senegalese fans had previously decided not to appeal the initial verdict against them. However, the French fan of Algerian origin, along with the Public Prosecution and the civil plaintiffs, chose to appeal the ruling.