A Moroccan police officer and his sister were arrested on September 27 by the anti-gang brigade of the Rabat prefectural judicial police, in coordination with the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance. The arrests were made on suspicion of involvement in the possession and trafficking of hard drugs and psychotropic tablets. The police officer was intercepted in a light vehicle on the highway connecting Tangier to Rabat.
During the search of the vehicle, investigators found 5,150 psychotropic tablets, 45 grams of cocaine, and a sum of money in national currency. The police officer and his sister are believed to be involved in a drug trafficking network. The sister was arrested in the Ain Aouda region, near Rabat, and is suspected of being the intended recipient of the drugs and psychotropics, which were destined for resale.
The two suspects were placed in custody at the disposal of the judicial investigation, which is being conducted under the supervision of the competent prosecutor's office. The National Security Directorate has temporarily suspended the police officer from his duties, pending the outcome of the judicial procedure, in accordance with administrative measures provided for against police officers suspected of involvement in criminal acts.
The anti-gang brigade and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance are continuing their investigations to dismantle the drug trafficking network and identify other potential suspects. The authorities have not disclosed the type and origin of the psychotropic tablets and cocaine seized.
The arrests are part of a broader effort by Moroccan authorities to combat drug trafficking and organized crime. Morocco has long been a transit country for drugs destined for Europe, and the authorities have been working to stem the flow of illicit substances.
The police officer and his sister are being held in custody pending further investigation and potential charges. If convicted, they could face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in Morocco, where corruption and organized crime are significant concerns. The authorities have pledged to take a tough stance on drug trafficking and corruption, and to hold accountable those involved in such crimes.
Key points
- A Moroccan police officer and his sister were arrested for trafficking hard drugs and psychotropics.
- The arrests were made by the anti-gang brigade of the Rabat prefectural judicial police, in coordination with the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance.
- The suspects were found to be in possession of 5,150 psychotropic tablets, 45 grams of cocaine, and a sum of money in national currency.