Morocco expels two Norwegians from Laayoune

On Monday, November 4, Moroccan authorities expelled two Norwegian nationals—a man and a woman—from Laayoune, according to a Spanish newspaper. The pair had arrived in Laayoune to «inquire about the human rights situation» in the Sahara and planned to «investigate» the renewable energy projects Morocco is currently developing in the region.

While in Laayoune, they met with members of pro-Polisario associations, including Mina Baali, a new prominent figure among the Front’s supporters in the Sahara, especially following Sultana Khaya’s relocation to Alicante, Spain, and the marginalization of Aminatou Haidar. Moroccan police detained the Norwegians at Baali's home before expelling them.

The previous day, Moroccan authorities had also expelled two other Norwegians from Laayoune. The Polisario Front enjoys strong support in Norway.