Morocco: Protests possible following mining accident in Jerada

Event

On Sunday, June 3, two miners were killed when an illegal lead mine collapsed in the Sidi Boubker area of Jerada province. Associated protests are possible in the coming days.

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 people died while attempting to extract coal from a closed pit near Jerada, leading to various demonstrations demanding job creation, economic development, and lower water and electricity prices.

Another illegal lead mine collapsed in Sidi Boubker on January 24, leaving one person injured.

Advice

Individuals present in Jerada, and Morocco more generally, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.