Ait Melloul, Morocco – Sahara Republic
Sahrawi civilian prisoners and students Ibrahim Babit and Salah Eddine Sabar were released on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from Ait Melloul Prison 1 after spending six months behind bars. Their detention was widely viewed by Sahrawi activists and human rights defenders as retaliation for their political positions supporting the Sahrawi people’s right to freedom, self-determination, and independence.
A correspondent for SaharaRepublic.com witnessed the atmosphere surrounding their release, as relatives, friends, and fellow activists gathered near the prison to welcome the two former detainees and celebrate their return to freedom.
According to observations on the ground, Moroccan security forces, both in uniform and plain clothes, maintained a heavy presence around the prison and closely monitored those arriving to participate in the reception. The security deployment was reportedly aimed at restricting public expressions of solidarity and celebration.
Despite these measures, supporters warmly welcomed Ibrahim Babit and Salah Eddine Sabar upon their release, expressing solidarity with them and reaffirming their commitment to the struggle for the rights of the Sahrawi people.
Their release comes after six months of imprisonment, a period that Sahrawi student organizations and human rights groups have described as politically motivated and linked to their peaceful advocacy for the Sahrawi people’s internationally recognized right to self-determination.
While Babit and Sabar have regained their freedom, Sahrawi rights advocates stress that the issue of Sahrawi political prisoners remains unresolved, calling for the release of all detained Sahrawi activists and for respect for fundamental human rights in Western Sahara.
