A major traffic disruption in Casablanca on Sunday night ended with the arrest of 21 young protesters, authorities confirmed on Monday.
According to sources cited by local media, the Casablanca Security District Police, acting under instructions from the Public Prosecutor’s Office, detained the demonstrators after they blocked a key highway at the Al-Qaria entrance.
Dozens of young people participated in the protest, chanting slogans demanding social justice, freedom, and urgent reforms in the health and education sectors.
Some participants wore masks while engaging in the demonstration, which brought traffic to a standstill and caused extensive congestion, with long queues forming in both directions towards Casablanca and Rabat.
“The youth raised their demands loudly, calling for solidarity from stranded drivers and emphasizing the need for systemic reforms,” a witness said.
Security forces and relevant authorities quickly arrived at the scene to disperse the crowd and restore traffic flow.
The arrested individuals were placed in custody and are expected to appear before the public prosecutor in the coming days, the sources added.
Observers note that this incident reflects growing frustration among Moroccan youth over social and economic inequalities, particularly regarding access to public services such as education and healthcare.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm while investigations continue and have reiterated the importance of lawful demonstrations to ensure both public safety and the right to protest.
The Casablanca highway protest highlights the delicate balance authorities face in addressing citizens’ demands while maintaining order on vital transport routes. It also signals a potential rise in youth-led activism in Morocco’s urban centres, as communities seek to amplify calls for social reform.
About The Author
