Massacre of sub-Saharan migrants in Rabat, Madrid: Amnesty International launches petition
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Amnesty International, a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting human rights, has recently launched a petition against the kingdoms of Spain and Morocco. The petition is in response to a heinous massacre of sub-Saharan migrants that occurred in Rabat and Madrid. Official figures suggest that at least 37 individuals lost their lives, with 77 others still missing. However, the Makhzen, the governing body of Morocco, has revised these figures downwards, indicating a cover-up of the true extent of the tragedy. The Makhzen has even gone so far as to bury the victims without releasing their names or notifying their respective embassies.
Mohamed Ziane, a former minister in charge of human rights under Hassan II, has publicly denounced the Makhzen’s actions, stating that the death toll is likely over 100. Unfortunately, his bravery has resulted in his imprisonment, despite being over 80 years old and in poor health. This is a clear indication that Morocco is willing to go to any lengths to hide its crimes and prevent them from being exposed to the public.
The incident in question occurred on June 24, 2022, when individuals attempting to cross the border between Morocco and Spain in Melilla were met with an unlawful and shocking use of force by Moroccan and Spanish security forces. This is a clear violation of human rights and cannot be tolerated.
These events at the Moroccan-Spanish border have been nothing short of tragic. We must demand truth, justice, and reparations for the victims and their loved ones. A petition has been created to bring attention to this issue and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
On June 24, 2022, Moroccan and Spanish security forces used excessive force and committed acts that could be considered torture or other forms of ill-treatment. These forces used batons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to violently arrest individuals attempting to cross the border. The situation was made worse by the fact that these individuals were beaten and kicked in an enclosed space, making it difficult for them to escape even after being restrained by the police.
To make matters worse, the Spanish and Moroccan authorities failed to provide adequate medical assistance to those who were injured. Dozens of individuals were left untreated in direct sunlight for at least eight hours, exacerbating their injuries and putting their lives at risk.
The current situation at the border between Morocco and Spain has been met with a leaden screed of silence, as both nations seek to stifle any discussion of the odious carnage that has occurred.
Shockingly, to date, neither country has provided information on the dead and missing to their relatives, nor have they admitted any wrongdoing. Furthermore, no investigation has been launched into these actions, which constitute crimes under international law and human rights violations, or into the suspicions of racism and discrimination.
This is not an isolated case, as people are still at risk of serious human rights violations at this border. The absence of safe routes and the harmful fortification of Europe’s borders at all costs have deadly consequences. It is imperative that Morocco and Spain guarantee the right of victims and their loved ones to truth, justice, and reparations, and take steps to ensure that such events do not happen again. We must act now.
Amnesty International has already distinguished itself by its courage and substantive work, releasing a voluminous and detailed report on the Zionist apartheid imposed in occupied Palestine. It is worth noting that Tel-Aviv and Rabat, publicly declared strategic allies, apply the same repressive and apartheid methods in occupied Palestine and Western Sahara.
Therefore, we urge you to join us in signing this petition, which demands justice for the victims and their families, and calls for an end to these atrocities. Together, we can make a difference. Please follow the link to sign the petition.
