Three Senegalese football fans walked free in Morocco on Saturday after serving three-month sentences linked to violence during the Africa Cup of Nations final.
Authorities transferred the trio from Al Arjat 2 prison to a police station before formally completing their release procedures later that day.
Outside, smiles replaced prison walls as embassy staff welcomed the fans, marking a quiet diplomatic moment after weeks of tension.
One of the released supporters voiced gratitude, chanting support for Morocco, reflecting a conciliatory tone after the unrest surrounding the final.
Their lawyer, Patrick Kabou, credited sustained diplomatic engagement for securing the outcome and urged public support for their reintegration.
He also called for understanding, noting the emotional toll of detention and the difficulty of returning to normal life after incarceration abroad.
Despite the release, 15 Senegalese fans remain imprisoned, serving sentences between six months and one year upheld on appeal earlier this week.
The group was detained following clashes during the January 18 final in Rabat, where disorder disrupted celebrations and strained relations.
Charges included hooliganism, encompassing violence against police, property damage, pitch invasion, and throwing projectiles during the match.
The final itself ended in controversy, with Senegal initially winning before the title was later awarded to host nation Morocco on appeal.
Separately, a French national of Algerian origin was also released after completing a similar three-month sentence for throwing a bottle.