Morocco beaches crackdown extortion summer 2024

Environmental defenders are raising their voices. Mohamed Shimi, president of the Zohour association for environment and sustainable development in Mohammedia, welcomes the recent offensive against those who monopolize the sand. In the past, these operators systematically imposed paid chairs and umbrellas on visitors. But for civil society organizations, the effort must be sustained. "The challenge today is not limited to freeing public spaces, it requires permanent surveillance throughout the summer season," he insists, also calling for urgent reinforcement of cleanliness and basic services in the face of exploding visitor numbers.

On Bladi.net : Casablanca Beaches Cleared of Illegal Vendors Ahead of Summer Season

The message appears to have been heard at the top of the metropolis. On instruction from the wilaya of the Casablanca-Settat region, tough raids now target informal guardians and illegal umbrella operators. Moulay Ahmed Afilal, vice-president of Casablanca’s Municipal Council, promises to guarantee the safety of swimmers. He assures that control teams are hunting down these individuals who demand money without any legal basis. The municipality’s objective remains clear: offer open spaces so that every citizen can enjoy the coast freely and at no cost.

On Bladi.net : Casablanca Cracks Down: Beach Harassment and Illegal Rentals Face Daily Scrutiny

This general mobilization comes as an intense heat wave has driven massive crowds to the coast during Eid al-Adha holidays. Unmissable sites like Ain Diab, Madame Choual or Centre beach in Mohammedia, as well as Dar Bouazza and Sidi Rahal, were literally overrun. This high influx should not diminish. Demand for beach destinations will continue to rise in the coming days, forcing authorities to maintain maximum vigilance until the end of summer.