Violent clashes in Morocco leave two dead

As violence flared in the streets of Morocco, two people were killed and nine seriously wounded in clashes among migrants in a town near Casablanca.

The confrontation, which broke out on August 30th, according to the Moroccan-friendly outlet Hespress, involved dozens of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, many from Sudan. Armed with knives and sticks, the fight took place in the streets of the Jinane Zenata neighborhood, sending residents fleeing in panic.

The unrest comes amid an intensifying campaign by Moroccan authorities against irregular migrants, many of whom have been living in public spaces such as parks and green areas.

Morocco has long been a spring board for sub-Saharan migrants en route to Europe, exacerbating the strain on marginalized groups vying for resources. In recent years, tightening European border controls and repeated crackdowns have left thousands stranded in Morocco, often in precarious conditions without stable housing, work, or legal status.

Migrants are therefore routinely subjected to hostile reception ranging from xenophobic abuses to forced displacements.

Security forces, including the Royal Gendarmerie, auxiliary troops, and civil protection units, were deployed to manage the situation. By Monday morning, a heavy police presence remained in place to prevent the groups from regrouping.

Residents say they now live in fear of renewed clashes. “The violence was terrifying,” one resident told local media. “Families locked themselves indoors while the fighting raged outside.”

Authorities say the victims were taken to Moulay Abdellah provincial hospital in Mohammedia. Prosecutors have opened an investigation.

Governor Adel Malki has ordered strict measures to dismantle makeshift shelters set up by migrants in Ain Harrouda, vowing to prevent their return. Officials argue the crackdown is necessary to curb further unrest, though rights groups warn it risks worsening tensions.

Hespress/ Maghrebi