Young Man Fatally Shot by Algerian Navy Near Moroccan Border
Tragedy Reignites Concerns Over Maritime Incidents
A 22-year-old aspiring to reach Spain by sea has been killed, reportedly by the Algerian Navy, reigniting painful memories and raising urgent questions about safety for those attempting irregular crossings.
Tragic Incident Off Saïdia
Osama Hamham, a former player for the Amal Riadhi Al Aaroui club, died Sunday after his boat was fired upon. Initial reports suggest the vessel was attempting to steer clear of Moroccan patrols when it encountered an Algerian naval unit. The shooting is believed to have occurred in or near Algerian territorial waters, with **Osama Hamham** sustaining fatal injuries at sea.
The devastating news has sent shockwaves through **Al Aroui**, a town in the Nador region. The Amal Riadhi club shared its grief online, stating, It was with immense sadness that we learned of the tragic death of our former player, shot down by the Algerian coast guard while he was on a boat in Saïdia. All club members send their most sincere condolences to their family and loved ones.
Echoes of Previous Fatalities
This incident starkly recalls a similar tragedy on August 29, 2023, when two young Moroccans, Abdelali Mchiouer and Bilal Kissi, were killed by the Algerian army. They had become lost at sea on Jet-Skis near the maritime border. **Abdelali Mchiouer**’s body was only returned to his family in December 2023 after several months.
The recurring events are fueling concerns regarding the treatment of civilians and migrants who approach Algerian waters. NGOs in Nador and Saïdia have stated they lack specific details but confirmed an investigation has been launched.
A relative of the **Hamham** family has reportedly traveled from Germany to Spain to identify **Osama Hamham**’s body and initiate repatriation procedures to Morocco.
Dangerous Journeys Highlighted
This latest death underscores the perilous reality of irregular migration, particularly from Morocco’s Oriental region. Facing high unemployment and limited opportunities, many young individuals risk their lives attempting sea voyages to Europe.
The International Organization for Migration reported that in 2023, approximately 3,100 people died or went missing attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, emphasizing the extreme dangers involved in such journeys (UNHCR, IOM, and UN agencies 2023).
