Moroccan authorities have opened a judicial investigation into the illegal resale of match tickets during the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following widespread complaints from football fans who say they were unable to secure tickets through official channels.

According to official findings reported by local media, eight individuals have been arrested on suspicion of unlawfully trading AFCON tickets outside the authorized sales system. The investigation is being conducted under the supervision of the relevant public prosecutor’s offices.

Social Media Monitoring Triggers Police Action

The case emerged after national police monitoring units detected multiple posts on social media platforms advertising AFCON tickets for sale through unauthorized channels. Subsequent technical analysis and field investigations enabled authorities to identify the suspected individuals.

Security operations were carried out in several Moroccan cities, including Rabat, Temara, Salé, Agadir, Marrakech, and Mohammedia, leading to the arrests. Officials have confirmed that the suspects are currently under judicial investigation to determine the full scope of the alleged activities and identify any additional parties involved.

Authorities also stated that investigations remain ongoing as part of broader efforts to combat ticket fraud and protect fans during the continental football tournament.

Fans Report Difficulty Accessing Official Tickets

The police action comes amid growing frustration among football supporters, many of whom have taken to social media to report difficulties purchasing tickets through the official AFCON ticketing platform.

Several fans allege that tickets were bought in large quantities and later resold on the black market at significantly inflated prices. While exact resale figures have not been officially confirmed, supporters claim that prices increased by several multiples compared to face value, putting matches out of reach for many local fans.

Empty Seats Raise Questions at Opening Matches

Despite strong public interest in the tournament, observers noted a noticeable number of empty seats during the opening matches, including Morocco’s opening fixture. The phenomenon sparked debate online, with fans questioning how stadium sections could remain unoccupied while tickets were reportedly unavailable or unaffordable.

Local commentators have linked the empty seats to ticketing distribution challenges and unauthorized reselling, though tournament organizers have not released official attendance figures or provided a formal explanation.

Official Ticketing System and Anti-Fraud Measures

AFCON 2025 tickets are being sold exclusively through an official digital platform and require a Fan ID for purchase and stadium entry. The system was designed to enhance security and limit unauthorized resale, though high demand and technical challenges have reportedly complicated access for some users.

Moroccan authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing ticketing regulations and ensuring fair access for fans, particularly as the tournament progresses and demand remains high.

Ongoing Efforts to Protect Fans

The latest arrests signal a broader crackdown on ticket fraud during AFCON 2025, with officials emphasizing that illegal resale undermines both fans’ trust and the integrity of the event.

Supporters are being urged to purchase tickets only through official channels and to report suspicious activity online, as authorities continue efforts to safeguard one of Africa’s most prestigious football tournaments.