Protests took place in Dakar on Saturday in response to the imprisonment of 18 Senegalese football fans in Morocco after they were accused of causing disturbances. The fans have been detained since the African Cup of Nations final in January, which Senegal won against the host nation, Morocco. Demonstrators chanted slogans demanding the release of what they termed 'hostages' and held signs conveying the same message.

A court in Rabat sentenced the 18 fans on February 19 to prison terms ranging from three months to one year for charges that included violence against security forces, partially storming the pitch, and throwing objects during the AFCON final. The protest, which involved about 250 participants, took place over 1.5 kilometers in a northern neighborhood of Dakar, with a significant police presence reported but no incidents of violence.

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko condemned the sentencing this week, stating that the issue has transcended the sporting sphere, which is unfortunate. These events are seen as part of the broader discourse on sportsmanship and the limits of policing in sports, raising questions about the treatment of fans and the political implications of such cases between nations. This situation could further strain diplomatic relations, particularly in the context of sports-related conflicts.