Moroccan DGSN denies Le Point's claims of attacks on Sub-Saharan businesses during AFCON

The General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) categorically denied, on Friday, January 23, claims circulated by the French weekly Le Point alleging attacks and acts of arson targeting businesses owned by Sub-Saharan African nationals in Morocco on the sidelines of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

In an official statement, the DGSN expressed its «great astonishment» at an article published in the magazine’s January 21, 2026 edition, describing it as riddled with «false allegations». Moroccan security authorities stressed that no acts of aggression or criminal attacks targeting the businesses or economic interests of Sub-Saharan citizens were recorded anywhere in the country, either during the tournament or after the final.

The DGSN further explained that throughout the competition, its services closely monitored digital content spreading false information about alleged violence against Sub-Saharan nationals. These claims, it noted, were systematically refuted through official statements aimed at clarifying the facts in a «precise and neutral» manner.

The institution also highlighted that it maintains operational structures and specialized communication units permanently mobilized to respond to inquiries from national and international media. It nevertheless expressed regret that no request for clarification or information was addressed to its services prior to the publication of the contested article.