Morocco recovers footballer’s body after four months in Algerian custody

Moroccan authorities have retrieved the body of footballer Abdellatif Akhrif after a four-month delay, highlighting strained ties with Algeria. The Ittihad Riadhi de Tanger player’s remains were handed over at the Zouj Bghal border late Thursday. Akhrif, 24, drowned on July 6 during a boat trip off Restinga beach. While three companions were rescued, Akhrif’s body was found on August 8 near Oran, Algeria. DNA confirmation and bureaucratic hurdles delayed the repatriation.