Morocco demolishes unauthorized structures near the coast in M'diq-Fnideq

Local authorities in M'diq-Fnideq recently carried out a major operation to remove unauthorized buildings encroaching on public maritime land, particularly in Martil and Belyounech.

Earlier this week, authorities in Belyounech demolished 17 villas and houses illegally built on public land, sparking anger and concern among affected residents.

Videos of the demolitions circulated on social media, highlighting the residents' distress, some of whom had lived there for years. Residents expressed frustration at receiving only a three-day notice and demanded compensation and alternative housing, citing their difficult circumstances.

Martil also saw the demolition of 40 houses and buildings in Hay Diza, along with 7 additional structures built without authorization on public land, Le 360 reported on Friday.

??? La préfecture de M’diq-Fnideq a été le théâtre d’une large opération de libération du domaine public maritime.

Sous la houlette des autorités locales, cette initiative a ciblé les constructions illégalement érigées le long du littoral, notamment à Martil et à Belyounech.… pic.twitter.com/58Eyk5qeT1

— Le360 (@Le360fr) February 23, 2024

This campaign aligns with a nationwide plan to recover public property. In January, authorities demolished houses built near the sea in the surfing town of Imsouane. Casablanca also saw the demolition of substandard housing near the Sidi Abderrahmane mausoleum, mainly occupied by individuals allegedly involved in dubious medical practices and witchcraft.

Similar operations are anticipated in other areas where residents have been asked to vacate homes built on public land, including Dar Bouazza, a rapidly growing Casablanca suburb near the beach.