A wave of rising youth-led anti-government protests have swept through Morocco leaving at least 200 injured and another 400 arrested.
On Tuesday, hundreds of youth marched through the North African country demanding better social services and less corruption.
They protested the billions in investment flowing toward preparations for the 2030 World Cup while schools and hospitals lie in dire states.
Such upheaval is unusual for Morocco, a country often regarded as a beacon of stability in the Middle East and North Africa.
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The protests follow similar recent demonstrations in Kenya, the Philippines, Nepal, and Madagascar.
The uprising in Nepal led to the prime minister resigning. In Madagascar, the president was forced to dissolve his government.
The Kenyan president had also shrank his cabinet to placate protesters.
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“Health care first, we don’t want the World Cup,” the Moroccan protesters chanted.
The interior ministry accused demonstrators of a “dangerous escalation”.
“All persons proven to have committed acts or behaviors that fall under the scope of the law will be dealt with firmly and strictly,” the ministry said in a statement.
On Wednesday, the ministry said at least 263 security officers and 23 civilians were hurt in the clashes across 17 cities.
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The ministry added that “409 individuals” have been arrested in connection with the protests.
