sahararepublic.com has confirmed that Moroccan authorities detained Sahrawi human rights activist Salek Babir and student Abdel Samad Tiki on the morning of Thursday, April 23, 2026, in Guelmim, before releasing them after several hours in custody.
Salek Babir is known as a member of CODESA and as one of the Sahrawi voices that have previously faced arrest and ill-treatment due to his human rights work and political positions.
Background of the detention
According to information obtained by the site, the detention followed their participation in a public استقبال (welcome gathering) held in the city of Assa for Sahrawi student El Hussein Bourkba after his recent release, an event that drew notable public attendance.
The incident is also linked to the same context in which activist El Barr El Kentawi was previously detained, as part of actions connected to recent peaceful activities.
Temporary detention without official clarification
Babir and Tiki were held for several hours inside a police station before being released, with no official explanation provided regarding the reasons behind their detention.
What this indicates
This incident reflects, according to sahararepublic.com, the continued targeting of Sahrawi activists in connection with peaceful activities, amid ongoing restrictions affecting freedom of expression and assembly in Western Sahara.
Conclusion
Although the detention ended with their release, the case highlights the pressures faced by Sahrawi activists, particularly those involved in human rights work and peaceful civic participation.
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