Morocco: more than 24 people suspected of having died in flooding in Tangier food factory

At least 24 people have lost their lives after heavy rains flooded an illegal underground textile factory in Morocco.

Sources indicate that 10 other people were fortunately rescued from the workshop, located in the basement of a house in Tangier.

They were unable to say the number of people at the time of the flooding, but rescuers are still on the scene and investigations are ongoing.

In recent weeks, Morocco has experienced very heavy rains with blocked or poorly maintained drains which often worsen flooding in Moroccan cities.

Some videos circulating in recent days show cars completely submerged in water in Tangier.

Local media report that water spilled into the basement of the building where people were working, which ultimately trapped many people inside.

However, a local man reportedly saved many people by using a rope to bring them to safety.

The deceased are all believed to be between 20 and 40 years old, a government official revealed.

The Moroccan textile and leather industry thrives especially through informal operations, including unregulated factories, which generally lead to unsafe conditions for workers.