By Hassan Gbassay Koroma
A recently circulated video on social media has sparked outrage and concern over alleged mistreatment of African migrants in Morocco.
The footage, which appears to depict instances of abuse, has led to questions about human rights practices and the country’s treatment of migrants.
In response, the Moroccan Embassy in Sierra Leone has dismissed the allegations, stating that the video is misleading and does not accurately represent Morocco’s immigration policies.
The embassy emphasized that Morocco is committed to humanitarian assistance and the protection of human rights, ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals within its borders, regardless of nationality.
According to the embassy, the video in question relates to tragic events that occurred in June 2022. They claim that the footage has been edited and circulated by individuals with the intent to spread misinformation and damage Morocco’s international reputation.
The embassy explained that the incident involved an attack on a law enforcement post in Barrio-Chino, rather than the typical targeting of border fences. They stated that the assailants infiltrated Morocco via the border with Algeria, taking advantage of what they described as Algeria’s lax border control and tolerance of human trafficking networks facilitating illegal migration.
The embassy further alleged that these trafficking networks employ violent tactics and operate in a highly organized manner. During the June 2022 incident, law enforcement officers reportedly faced attacks from individuals armed with sticks, machetes, stones, and knives, resulting in serious injuries to over 140 officers.
The embassy noted that some of the assailants were identified as militia members and former military personnel from conflict-ridden countries. They described the attack as well-coordinated, structured, and led by individuals with military training.
While acknowledging the human tragedy of such incidents, the embassy warned against political exploitation of the situation, stressing that Morocco remains committed to addressing migration challenges and dismantling criminal networks involved in human trafficking.
“Morocco plays a central role in combating illegal immigration and will continue, under the High Royal Directions, to uphold a humanist, inclusive, and solidarity-based migration governance model,” the embassy stated.
They further highlighted Morocco’s ongoing efforts in tackling illegal migration, noting a significant decline in irregular entries in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Since 2017, Moroccan authorities have reportedly prevented over 409,000 irregular migration attempts, with nearly 49,000 blocked in 2023 alone.
The embassy reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with international partners to address migration challenges while safeguarding national security.
