Serious Violations Documented Against Sahrawi Prisoners
In the occupied region of El Aaiún on October 1, 2026, the Sahrawi Prisoners’ Protection Association has highlighted alarming reports regarding the treatment of members from the Gdeim Izik prisoner group. Following their open-ended hunger strike that took place from September 23 to 30, the association documented a range of severe violations and retaliatory actions taken by Moroccan prison authorities. This response has raised significant concerns regarding the well-being and rights of these prisoners, as they continue to advocate for their reunification in a single facility within the occupied territories of Western Sahara, alongside a call for respect for their internationally recognized rights.
The report presented by the Association details instances of arbitrary transfers and the unsettling disappearance of several prisoners from contact with their families. Notably, Naâma Asfari was transferred to Oudaya Prison in Marrakesh on September 23 without any prior notice to his family. Similarly, Bashir Khada was moved from Tiflet 2 Prison on September 24, with confirmation later received that he had been relocated to the occupied city of El Aaiún. The situation remains dire for Hassan Dah, whose whereabouts remained uncertain until September 30, amid distressing reports of mistreatment during his transfer.
Currently, seven prisoners, including Ahmed Sebai, El Hussein Zaoui, Mohamed Bachir Boutenkiza, Mohamed Lamin Haddi, Abdallah Bahah, Hassan Dah, and Naâma Asfari, have continued their hunger strike, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their cause. However, Mohamed Bani was compelled to cease his strike on September 26 due to a severe deterioration in his health, which necessitated his transfer to the medical unit of Ait Melloul 2 Prison. This situation underscores the urgent need for intervention and support from the international community.
The Association has reported that communication via telephone with the hunger-striking prisoners has been severed, with families of several prisoners facing barriers to visitation, despite having traveled over 1,200 kilometers to reach Kenitra Prison. This lack of access not only exacerbates the prisoners' isolation but also raises serious questions about their treatment and conditions in custody.
In response to these concerning developments, the Association has issued a clarion call for immediate action from the international community and human rights organizations. They urge these bodies to clarify the whereabouts of the prisoners whose fates remain uncertain, to ensure that adequate medical care is provided to those on hunger strike, and to investigate all allegations of torture and ill-treatment. Furthermore, the Association insists that Morocco must comply with the recommendations set forth by relevant UN mechanisms regarding the Gdeim Izik prisoners, emphasizing the necessity for accountability and adherence to international standards of human rights.
As reported by spsrasd.info.
