Senegalese Fans' Lawyer: Three to Be Released Today, Pardon Request Submitted to King for Remaining Detainees

The lawyer representing the Senegalese fans confirmed that three individuals are set to be released from Moroccan prisons today, Saturday. Their release follows the completion of their three-month sentences, which began after their arrest on January 18. The arrests were made in connection with the riot incidents that occurred during the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal.

Senegalese lawyer Patrick Kabou explained that the three prisoners, upon gaining their freedom, will travel directly to the city of Fes to visit the Tijaniyya Zawiya before returning to Dakar to reunite with their families.

Kabou also announced that the defense team for the Senegalese fans detained in Morocco has submitted a pardon request to King Mohammed VI, seeking the release of the remaining detainees on an upcoming religious occasion. The Senegalese fans scheduled for release in the coming hours expressed their desire to first travel to Fes to visit the shrine of Sheikh Ahmed Tidiane, the founder of the Tijaniyya Sufi order. Lawyer Patrick Kabou clarified, “They say that immediately after their release from prison, they wish to go to Fes to pray, and then return home peacefully and without any issues.”

The lawyer further explained the procedures for submitting the pardon request for the detainees, stating, “I received instructions to immediately begin the process of submitting the pardon request. This was done through our Moroccan colleague, who always identifies herself as a Senegalese Moroccan. She was the one who submitted the request to the King's office.”

Kabou continued, relaying statements from the prisoners: “Many of my compatriots assured me that they have no problem with Morocco. Instead, they believe the problem lies within Morocco, with the stadium workers who sought to create criminals. They affirm that they hold no grudges against anyone.”