Moroccan Prosecutor’s Office Refutes Allegations in CAN 2025 Hooliganism Case

Moroccan Prosecutor’s Office Refutes Allegations in CAN 2025 Hooliganism Case

By BSN Sports 

The Moroccan Public Prosecutor’s Office has formally denied the accusations made by Me Patrick Kabou, lawyer for the 18 Senegalese nationals being prosecuted following acts of hooliganism committed on the sidelines of the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025).

In an official statement, judicial authorities firmly rejected any claims of irregularities in the handling of this sensitive case, asserting that the proceedings have been conducted in strict compliance with the legal guarantees provided by law.

No Unjustified Delays

Contrary to claims that the case was handled belatedly, the prosecutor’s office “categorically denies any allegation of unjustified delay.” According to the same source, the timeframes observed are consistent with normal procedural requirements and with requests made by the parties involved.

Detention Conditions Deemed Compliant

Authorities also dismissed rumors alleging poor detention conditions and a supposed hunger strike. “The detainees receive their meals regularly,” the prosecutor’s office stated, describing such reports as “unfounded.

Hearing Postponements Requested by Defendants

Regarding the adjournments of court hearings, the prosecutor clarified that they were granted at the request of the defendants themselves. These postponements were intended to allow them sufficient time to prepare their defense and ensure the effective presence of their lawyers.

A lawyer registered with a bar association in France attended one of the hearings. However, the absence of a consultation office in Morocco, combined with the defendants’ wish to be tried in the presence of their legal counsel, led the court to postpone the case until February 12, 2026.

Translation and Language Assistance Ensured

The court stated that it provided a sworn French-language interpreter, a language spoken by all the defendants. Additionally, a Wolof translator was mobilized in coordination with the Deputy Consul of Senegal in Morocco to ensure full understanding of the proceedings.

Authorities further noted that the law does not require the presence of an interpreter during the preliminary investigation stage when the judicial police officer understands the individual’s language, provided that official reports are read and explained to the persons concerned.

A Case Under Close Scrutiny

The case, which occurred in the highly publicized context of the final of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, continues to attract significant attention in both Senegal and Morocco. Moroccan judicial authorities maintain that the proceedings are moving forward “in strict respect of the rights of the defense and the applicable legal framework.”