King of Morocco pardons Senegalese fans after controversial Africa Cup of Nations final
Kyiv • UNN
Mohammed VI has released 18 Senegalese nationals convicted of stadium rioting. The decision was made on humanitarian grounds amid the title controversy.
King Mohammed VI of Morocco has pardoned 18 Senegalese football fans who were previously imprisoned due to riots during the Africa Cup of Nations final. This was reported by the Associated Press, according to UNN.
Details
The Senegalese fans were sentenced in February to terms of up to one year in prison for hooliganism, violence, and damage to sports infrastructure. Some of them had already served their sentences.
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A statement from the Royal Cabinet noted that the decision was made for "humanitarian reasons" and in view of the "fraternal ties" between Morocco and Senegal. The pardon was also timed to coincide with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.
Scandal after the Africa Cup final
During the final match in January, Senegalese fans attempted to storm the pitch following a controversial penalty awarded to the Moroccan national team. Despite Senegal's 1-0 victory, the Confederation of African Football subsequently stripped the team of the title and awarded the win to Morocco. Senegal has announced its intention to appeal this decision.
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