Rabat, Morocco – A Moroccan court has sentenced an Algerian national, identified as Raouf Belgacemi, to three months in prison and a fine of 500 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately 47 Euros). The sentence was handed down by the Rabat Court of First Instance.
Belgacemi’s conviction stems from allegations of indecent behavior at the Moulay Hassan stadium in Rabat during a football match between the Algerian national team and the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to Moroccan authorities, Belgacemi engaged in actions deemed to be a public disturbance and a violation of public decency.
The prosecution framed the charges as relating to public indecency and the dissemination of inappropriate content during a sporting event. They argued that Belgacemi’s actions constituted a disruption of public order and a violation of the expected standards of respect within sports venues.
Following the circulation of a video purportedly showing the incident, Moroccan security services initiated an investigation to identify and locate Belgacemi. He was subsequently apprehended in Casablanca and transferred to Rabat, the jurisdiction where the alleged offenses occurred.
Belgacemi’s father has confirmed the sentence and indicated that the family is considering an appeal. He described the ruling as “unreasonable” and “internationally unlawful,” suggesting that a financial penalty would have been a more appropriate punishment.
This case has already sparked debate on social media. The family has until Tuesday to file an appeal.
