Insights

83 injured in anti-government protests

At least 83 people have been injured, including 72 police officers, after police fired tear gas rounds and clashes with hundreds during rock-throwing anti-government protests in al Hoceima.

The protests are taking place to demand greater economic development for the Rif region and to call for the immediate release of detainees held in connection with earlier anti-corruption demonstrations. They are part of a popular growing movement known as ‘Hirak’, which has come to symbolise resentment towards the history of state neglect and violence in poor coastal areas. The Rif-based popular movement was spurred into action after the murder of a fishmonger, who was crushed to death by local security forces in October 2016.

Several thousands of protesters have recently marched through Al Hoceima under a heavy police presence, with roads and businesses shut down in the latest round of nationwide demonstrations to protest against government corruption. There were no immediate reports of clashes or arrests, although Moroccan security forces have been known to have violently dealt with protesters.

Those operating or residing in Morocco are advised to anticipate further protests of a similar nature in the near-term. Avoid all large gathers of people are there is a possibility of protest related violence and detention by security forces. Track local media for all updates and remain vigilant.