The public prosecutor in Fez, Morocco, has issued two international arrest warrants for women suspected of being involved in a criminal network that exploits children for sexual purposes. The warrants were issued through Interpol as part of an ongoing investigation into the network. The case involves allegations of human trafficking, recruiting minors, and exploiting them for sexual purposes.

The investigation, led by the public prosecutor, has resulted in charges against 12 individuals who are currently in custody. The prosecutor decided to proceed with the case without further investigation, citing sufficient evidence. The accused include former and current staff members of the Al-Wafa orphanage, where the alleged abuses took place. The charges range from human trafficking to theft under threat.

The case was exposed after a video was published on YouTube by a Moroccan individual known as "Talouni," who claimed to have gathered testimony from former and current residents of the Al-Wafa orphanage. The testimony included allegations of sexual abuse, exploitation, and mistreatment of children at the orphanage. The video prompted authorities to launch an investigation into the allegations.

The public prosecutor has also decided to pursue six individuals who are not in custody. They are accused of various roles in the alleged exploitation network. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather more evidence and testimony from those involved.

The Al-Wafa orphanage provides care for vulnerable children, including those who have been abandoned or are in difficult social situations. The alleged abuses at the orphanage have raised concerns about the safety and protection of children in such institutions. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.

The case has sparked widespread concern and outrage in Morocco, with many calling for greater accountability and protection for vulnerable children. The government's response to the allegations will be closely watched, as will the outcome of the investigation and prosecution.

The international arrest warrants issued for the two women bring the total number of individuals wanted in connection with the case to 20. Authorities are working with Interpol to track down the suspects and bring them to justice. The case highlights the need for international cooperation in combating human trafficking and child exploitation.

Key points

  • Two international arrest warrants issued for women suspected of involvement in child exploitation network.
  • 12 individuals currently in custody, charged with various crimes related to human trafficking and exploitation.
  • Investigation ongoing, with authorities working to gather more evidence and testimony.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.