After a wave of violent unrest swept across several regions of the country on Tuesday, the Interior Ministry issued a stern warning, condemning what it described as a dangerous surge in unlawful demonstrations that severely disrupted public order. In a press briefing, ministry spokesperson Rachid El Khalfi strongly criticized the escalation, pointing to unauthorized gatherings that quickly spiraled into chaos.
According to officials, the disturbances were marked by alarming levels of violence. Protesters reportedly hurled stones, Molotov cocktails, and even used bladed weapons against police forces. The toll was heavy: 263 security personnel were injured, along with 23 civilians. The damage extended well beyond personal injuries. A total of 142 police vehicles and 20 privately owned cars were damaged, and multiple fires were deliberately set.
The Ministry highlighted the involvement of organized groups in the destruction of public and private property. Banks, government offices, businesses, and administrative buildings were ransacked in several cities including Aït Amira, Inezgane-Aït Melloul, Agadir, Tiznit, and Oujda. In a particularly disturbing incident in Oujda, a Civil Protection ambulance was blocked from transporting injured individuals to medical facilities.
In response, authorities have detained 409 people, all taken into custody under orders from the public prosecutor. Others, once their identities were verified, were released. The Ministry emphasized that these gatherings were not sanctioned and had been triggered by anonymous calls circulating on social media, entirely outside any legal framework.
The scale of the unrest is striking. In Inezgane-Aït Melloul alone, 69 officers were wounded, with extensive vandalism targeting banks and stores. Oujda recorded 51 injuries and 40 vehicles damaged. Similar acts of violence were reported in other regions, including Skhirat-Témara, Beni Mellal, Berkane, Tiznit, and Nador.
El Khalfi reaffirmed that the right to protest is guaranteed, but it must operate within the boundaries of the law. While reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting civil liberties, he stressed that maintaining public safety and national stability remains a top priority. Law enforcement will continue to act decisively, he said, in full compliance with professional standards and legal procedures.
The Interior Ministry made it clear that any violations of the law will lead to legal action. Those found responsible will be held accountable before the courts, under the supervision of the appropriate judicial authorities.
