Rabat: At least 160 people were arrested, some of them carrying knives and stones, in Sunday’s violence at a Moroccan football match, injuring more than 100 police officers.
The Directorate General of National Security (DGSN) said the supporters, which included 90 juveniles, were arrested for “his alleged involvement in acts of violence, possession of a knife, drinking, throwing stones, causing damage and setting the vehicle on fire.” ” in a statement.
Violence erupted at the end of a Throne Cup game between ASFAR, a Moroccan Armed Forces club based in Rabat, and the Maghreb de Fez (MAS).
According to local media, AS FAR were beaten 2–0 and their overzealous fans invaded the pitch to face rival supporters.
On intervening, shells were fired at the police.
The DGSN reported 103 police injuries, while 57 supporters were also injured.
“At this stage of the investigation, much damage to the facilities at the Moulay-Abdallah Stadium has been recorded. A motorcycle was set on fire and 33 police and private vehicles were also damaged.
The Moroccan football federation will meet next week to discuss the violence and sanctions expected.
Sunday’s was the first outbreak of trouble since fans were allowed to return to playgrounds in late February after a two-year shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.
However, Moroccan stadiums have been the scene of violence among supporters in recent years.
There are frequent fights between fans of the country’s two top Casablanca clubs, Vaudad and King, including in the streets outside the stadium.
After the deaths of two supporters in early 2016, authorities disbanded militant groups and banned slogans and banners on rooftops.
However, the militants were allowed to return to the ground in March 2018.
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