Morocco: Protests possible following mine collapse in Sidi Boubker /update 4

Event

An illegal lead mine collapsed on Wednesday, January 24, leaving one man severely injured. The accident occurred near Sidi Boubker, 30 km (20 mi) east of the town of Jerada. The incident will likely spark protests, and consequent transportation and commercial disruptions and a heightened security presence, in Jerada province and other areas of Oriental region in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Mining was a major industry in Jerada province until the 1970s when most mines were closed. Due to the lack of other sources of income, local residents continue, at their own risk, to extract resources from the closed mines. In December 2017, two young people died while attempting to extract coal from a closed pit near the town of Jerada, leading to various demonstrations demanding job creation, economic development, and lower water and electricity prices.

Advice

Individuals in Jerada province and elsewhere in Morocco are advised to keep abreast of the situation and avoid public demonstrations as a precaution.