Three Senegalese football fans who were detained in Morocco after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final have been released after serving their three-month sentences. These supporters were part of a group that included 18 Senegalese nationals and one French citizen, all of whom were convicted in February for their involvement in violent incidents during the AFCON final held in Rabat on January 18. The charges against them included hooliganism, violence against police, and damage to sports equipment.
On Monday, the Rabat Court of Appeal upheld the sentences, which ranged from three months to one year, along with fines between €90 and €460. While the three released supporters have completed their sentences, 15 Senegalese fans remain in custody. Their lawyer has indicated plans to request a royal pardon for those still imprisoned.
The legal proceedings originated from a chaotic match between Senegal and Morocco, which featured pitch invasions following a controversial penalty decision. Although Senegal won the game 1-0 in extra time, the Confederation of African Football later overturned the result, awarding the title to Morocco instead. This incident has led to diplomatic tensions between Senegal and Morocco, with Senegal’s prime minister criticizing the jail terms as disproportionate.
The case underscores ongoing concerns regarding crowd control and fan behavior at major sporting events across Africa. The release of the three supporters represents the latest development in a controversy that began with the final whistle of the continental championship and has since escalated into an international legal and diplomatic issue.
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