The News

Thousands Hold Vigil to Mark Death of Fish Vendor in Morocco

HOCEIMA, Morocco – Tens of thousands of people are marching in a candlelight vigil in Morocco to mark a week since a fish vendor was crushed to death in a garbage truck — an incident that continues to prompt nationwide protests.

Demonstrators gathered Friday in the Mohammed V Square in Hoceima with banners that read “murder” to voice anger at the death of Mouhcine Fikri, which they blame on local authorities. Fikri died after he tried to retrieve the unauthorized swordfish he was selling from the garbage which was thrown out by police.

On Tuesday, the Interior Ministry announced that 11 people — including two local security agents and the head of the local fisheries department — would face charges including manslaughter and other offenses relating to the death.

A national march is planned for Rabat on Sunday.