Moroccan authorities have launched an investigation into a police officer and a driver after 13 kilograms of cannabis resin were discovered in a utility vehicle at Tanger Med Port on September 17. The driver had completed border checks and was preparing to board a ferry to Europe when police stopped the vehicle and conducted a search. The discovery of the hashish prompted an examination of how the drugs had passed through the port's security controls.
According to security-camera footage, the driver received the shipment after clearing security and reaching the ferry terminal. Investigators identified the alleged supplier as a police officer assigned to Tanger Med Port, who holds the rank of police brigadier. The officer was arrested in connection with the case, and the driver remains in custody as investigators work to establish the full circumstances of the alleged smuggling attempt.
The Tangier regional judicial police formally opened a judicial investigation on September 19 under the supervision of the competent public prosecutor. Authorities are examining whether other people took part in the operation and whether the case has links to wider drug-trafficking networks inside or outside Morocco. The investigation aims to identify any additional suspects and trace assets that may have resulted from the alleged criminal activity.
The General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) has suspended the police officer from duty on a temporary basis. The measure will remain in place until the judicial process concludes and authorities determine whether he faces disciplinary action. The suspension is a standard procedure in such cases, allowing for an impartial investigation.
Searches and arrests are expected to continue as investigators seek to gather more evidence. The authorities are working to determine the origin of the hashish and whether it was part of a larger shipment. The case has raised concerns about the security of ports and border crossings in Morocco.
The alleged smuggling attempt has also sparked concerns about corruption within the police force. The DGSN has stated that it will cooperate fully with the investigation and take disciplinary action if necessary. The incident has highlighted the need for increased vigilance and monitoring of port security.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against both suspects remain subject to the outcome of the judicial proceedings. The case will likely have significant implications for port security and the fight against drug trafficking in Morocco. Authorities are expected to provide updates on the investigation as more information becomes available.
Key points
- Authorities have arrested a police officer and a driver in connection with the alleged smuggling of 13kg of hashish at Tanger Med Port.
- The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining potential links to wider drug-trafficking networks.
- The police officer has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of the judicial process.
