NGOs denounce human right violation in Morocco

The Moroccan Coalition for Human Rights on Wednesday denounced “abusive” arrests and cases of “torture” in al-Hoceïma.

The coalition which comprises 22 organisations, criticized Moroccan authorities for repressing demonstrators of the “Hirak”, a popular protest movement that has been shaking the northern Rif region for months.

The focal point of the movement was to call for the development of the Rif region deemed marginalised.

Hundreds of protesters have been arrested since the end of May. Tension is up a notch and rallies have almost become daily affairs in al-Hoceima, as neighbouring communities gather to demand the release of the detained activists.

According to the coalition, some 135 people including seven journalists have been arrested since late may.