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Morocco: Arrests Al-Hoceima Activist, Investigates Him in Casablanca | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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Moroccan activist Nasser Zefzafi gives a speech during a demonstration against injustice and corruption in the northern town of Al-Hoceima, Morocco, May 18, 2017. REUTERS/Youssef Boudlal


Rabat- A leading Moroccan activist was arrested on Monday after he became wanted since last Friday for raiding a mosque and preventing the preacher from continuing his sermon and instead made a provocative speech.

Nasser Zefzafi managed to flee and hide after some protesters started throwing stones on the security forces and prevented them from reaching him.

General Prosecutor at Al-Hoceima Court of Appeal announced on Monday that Zefzafi was arrested for suspicion of disrupting the freedom to worship.

According to reliable sources, Zefzafi was arrested around six in the morning on Monday and he did not show any resistance. Sources added that he was transferred to Casablanca and investigations with him started upon his arrival under the supervision of the public prosecution.

Zefzafi is the detainee number 23 from members of the movement involved in clashes with security forces.

He persevered to upload videos that criticize the authority and hold it responsible for the marginalization that the region is suffering from, following protests that spurred after the death of the fishmonger Mohsen Fikri in a garbage truck.

Before arresting him, he posted a video urging protesters to keep up the movement and to maintain peaceful protests.

The Moroccan activist urged other cities to show solidarity with protesters in Al-Homemade – some interacted with his calls and carried out night protests to support the movement in Al-Hoceima.

Security authorities affirmed that the initial outcome of the research has revealed that suspects received financial transfers and logistic support from foreign parties for the purpose of carrying out propaganda activities that would threaten the kingdom’s unity and shake loyalty of citizens and institutions to the Moroccan state.