Rabat – The General Union of Senegalese Students in Morocco (UGESM) has denied rumors circulating on social media about alleged attacks against Senegalese students in several Moroccan cities following the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, UGESM said the information spread online since Sunday caused serious concern among Senegalese students living in Morocco and their families.
However, after checking with its local sections, regional coordinators, and through coordination with Moroccan authorities, the union confirmed that no officially reported or proven cases of aggression targeting Senegalese students have been recorded so far.
UGESM reassured Senegalese students and their families that the situation in Morocco remains calm and under control. “Relations between the Senegalese and Moroccan communities remain peaceful, and Moroccan authorities continue to ensure the safety of all residents, without discrimination,” reads the statement.
The union added that it remains fully mobilized and in constant contact with the Embassy of Senegal in Morocco to closely monitor the situation and guarantee the security and well-being of Senegalese students.
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The statement comes in the aftermath of a highly tense and chaotic AFCON final played in Rabat between host nation Morocco and Senegal. The match ended in controversy after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review, a decision that sparked strong protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff.
Senegal’s team left the pitch in protest, causing confusion and a lengthy interruption before play resumed. Morocco later missed the penalty, and Senegal went on to score the winning goal in extra time and secure the AFCON title.
Still, chaos erupted at the stadium, with Senegalese fans attempting to storm the pitch and violently attacking stadium staff. The dramatic scenes fueled heated reactions online, with social media platforms quickly filling with rumors and claims, including allegations of violence against Senegalese nationals in Morocco.
UGESM warned that the spread of such unverified information risks creating unnecessary fear and tension, and called on everyone to act responsibly by relying only on official sources.
UGESM urged Senegalese students and their families to follow updates exclusively through the union’s official communication channels and those of the Embassy of Senegal in Morocco. It added that it will continue to work closely with diplomatic and local authorities to ensure that Senegalese students can continue their studies in a safe and peaceful environment.
