May 17, 2026

The Panafrican Press

English-language platform committed to rigorous, independent journalism across the African continent.

Three senegalese football fans arrive back in Dakar after can detention


The initial trio of Senegalese football enthusiasts, previously held in custody in Morocco following disturbances during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), touched down on Thursday at the Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) in Diass. Abdoulaye Dieng, Ibrahima Diop, and Aziz Wade disembarked from a Royal Air Maroc flight at 6:25 PM, where a large, enthusiastic crowd awaited them, providing a heartfelt welcome upon their return to Dakar.

 These three individuals were among a group of eighteen supporters apprehended during the championship final clash between Senegal and Morocco. They faced conviction by the Rabat Court of Appeal on charges of “hooliganism,” which encompassed public order offenses, the throwing of projectiles, damage to sports facilities, and acts of aggression against law enforcement officials.

 

Having completed their three-month prison sentences, these supporters gained their freedom on April 18. For the remaining fifteen individuals still detained, their confirmed appeal sentences range from six months to a full year in prison. Their repatriation to Senegal is anticipated to occur in stages as each of their respective terms of incarceration concludes.