An African nation finds itself under fire amid allegations that organised groups are slaughtering stray dogs in the country ahead of their bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
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Animal welfare groups are sounding the alarm as thousands of stray dogs face brutal killings in venues across Morocco, ahead of the nation's bid to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
According to the Mirror, campaigners warn that up to three million dogs are at risk of being slaughtered in a horrific street clean-up before the tournament kicks off.
The International Animal Coalition has launched a campaign to expose what it calls "Morocco's ugly secret". Disturbingly, reports indicate that dogs are being poisoned with strychnine, either injected directly or fed via tainted bait.
The situation is said to be dire, with armed gunmen reportedly patrolling the streets armed with rifles and pistols.
Many of the animals suffer horrific injuries, left to bleed out in agony. Strays are also trapped using clamping devices and forcibly loaded into trucks, where they are transported to facilities for inhumane killings.
The coalition has expressed alarm at the surge in these barbaric acts since FIFA's announcement in 2023.
There are now growing fears that if FIFA ratifies the decision on 11 December 2024, Morocco may view it as a green light to carry out its plan to exterminate up to three million dogs.
Currently, no other countries are bidding for the tournament. In addition to matches in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, FIFA has stated that three matches will be held in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup, which took place in Montevideo.
Les Ward, chair of the International Animal Coalition stated: "For years, the Government of Morocco has shown no remorse for its actions, hoping to keep its 'ugly secret' hidden from the international community. Dogs, whether street or owned, are part of the fabric of Morocco but are treated like garbage to be disposed of by any means."
He further highlighted the distressing impact on children witnessing these brutal acts: "They are being traumatised. Calls and protests from increasing numbers of Moroccan citizens are ignored, often met with harassment and intimidation. FIFA has been presented with evidence of these atrocities yet has refused to take action. The killings escalate around proposed tournament venues, peaking before FIFA site visits."
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Ward concluded with a passionate plea: "This is unacceptable, and many football fans will be furious to learn of it. FIFA must act now to halt the cruel dog killings in Morocco. Until then, Morocco should be suspended as a co-host."
