"Hundreds took to the streets of Dakar to demand the release of 18 Senegalese fans jailed in Rabat, denouncing what they described as harsh prison sentences handed down after clashes at the 2025 AFCON final. Footage shows demonstrators marching through the capital while waving Senegalese flags and holding up signs reading, 'free the hostages' and 'free our supporters.' "They are not criminals; they are supporters. It is passion. It is a sport. Sport should strengthen people, but sport should not lead to this. The supporters must be released, because we cannot say they are detainees - they are hostages," said one demonstrator. "We have always proclaimed the fraternal bond between Morocco and Senegal. Unfortunately, we see that when Moroccan interests are threatened, they cast those relations aside, do they not?" Added another. One protester called on the Senegalese government to ramp up its' efforts in securing the return of its jailed citizens from Rabat. "We, as society, as the people, are telling you to redouble your efforts so that our young people can return, and that they come back in good mental and physical health. This is a demand," he stressed. The 18 Senegalese nationals were sentenced by a court in Rabat over clashes linked to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, with Moroccan authorities citing offences related to public disorder, violence and property damage. The rulings have sparked diplomatic contacts between Dakar and Rabat, as Senegalese officials seek clarification on the legal proceedings and press for assurances regarding the detainees' rights and conditions."