Senegalese Soldier Faces Consequences After Morocco Arrest
A Senegalese soldier has been officially discharged from military service following his arrest in Morocco during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final, which took place on January 18, 2026. This incident occurred amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions as the match saw Senegal face off against Morocco. The soldier was one of 18 Senegalese supporters apprehended after disturbances erupted during the game, leading to a series of legal repercussions.
The Moroccan judicial system handed down sentences to the supporters, with punishments varying from three months to one year in prison. In this case, the soldier received a six-month sentence along with a fine of 125,000 CFA francs. His situation escalated when, after several releases, King Mohammed VI graciously issued a royal pardon on May 23, 2026, which allowed the remaining 15 supporters to return home to Senegal.
Upon his return, however, the soldier faced an unexpected consequence: his discharge from the army. The primary reason cited for this decision was his unauthorized trip to Morocco, which he undertook without the necessary permission to leave the national territory. Reflecting on his actions, the former soldier acknowledged his mistakes, stating, "I will not condemn the army because I am at fault. I should not have left the country." He elaborated that he had taken advantage of a leave of absence to attend the final, with the intention of returning to his military duties promptly afterward.
Having dedicated 16 years of service to the Transport Battalion, the soldier now finds himself outside the ranks of the Senegalese army, a significant change that marks the end of an era in his military career.
As reported by beninwebtv.com.
