Kénitra authorities restore order after gendarmerie uses warning shots during tense intervention

Tuesday 14 July 2026 - 11:30

By: Sahili Aya

Kénitra authorities restore order after gendarmerie uses warning shots during tense intervention

A tense security operation in the province of Kénitra led the Royal Gendarmerie to fire warning shots after officers faced what authorities described as a dangerous situation involving a large and highly agitated group of individuals. Two people were accidentally injured during the intervention, according to local authorities.

The incident occurred on Monday evening in the commune of Sidi Mohamed Ben Mansour, where a patrol unit from the Ben Mansour territorial center of the Royal Gendarmerie was deployed following reports of disorder linked to ongoing agricultural activities in the area.

Intervention after disruption of agricultural work

Authorities said that a group of nearly 200 residents from Douar Riyah Lqabliya had obstructed work being carried out at two agricultural sites in the region. The situation escalated after a construction vehicle was reportedly set on fire, prompting the intervention of security forces to restore public order and manage the gathering.

When the gendarmerie officers arrived at the scene, they reportedly faced strong resistance from several participants. According to authorities, some individuals surrounded the officers, threw stones at them and attempted to threaten their physical safety, while also damaging an official vehicle.

Warning shots used to secure officers’ safety

Faced with the escalating situation, Royal Gendarmerie personnel used their service weapons to fire warning shots in an effort to contain the threat and protect themselves during the operation.

Authorities stated that the measure helped bring the situation under control and allowed officers to secure the area. The injuries reported during the intervention were described as accidental, with further details expected to emerge through the relevant procedures.

Security response amid local tensions

The incident highlights the challenges faced by security forces when managing large gatherings that quickly turn confrontational. In such situations, authorities emphasize that intervention measures are aimed at restoring calm while ensuring the safety of both law enforcement personnel and civilians.

The province of Kénitra, located in northwestern Morocco, has seen increased economic activity in recent years, particularly in agriculture, making local disputes involving land use and development projects a sensitive issue requiring careful management.

The authorities have not announced further details regarding possible legal proceedings following the incident.