Moroccan authorities have arrested 12 suspects, including 7 women, in connection with a human trafficking and sexual exploitation case involving vulnerable individuals at a social protection establishment in Fez. The suspects, who include a professor, former directors, security personnel, and social workers, were taken into custody on September 22. The arrests were made following an investigation that uncovered serious irregularities in the management of the establishment.
The investigation, conducted by the provincial judicial police brigade in Fez, revealed that some residents of the establishment were being exploited for illicit purposes, contradicting the social and humanitarian mission of such institutions. The suspects face charges of human trafficking, sexual assault, and other forms of violence. The case will be heard by the criminal chamber of the Court of Appeal in Fez on September 28.
The suspects include a professor from the faculty of letters, who was also the president of the association managing the establishment, as well as two former directors, a private security agent, a former store manager, a civil servant from the National Entraide, three educators, and three animators, including a general supervisor of the Al Wafae children's home. Six other suspects were released, pending further investigation.
The case came to light after a video was posted on YouTube by a Moroccan influencer living in Turkey, who reported allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by a former official. The influencer claimed that former and current residents, including minors, were forced into prostitution and other illicit activities. Several victims have since come forward, sharing their experiences of violence and abuse.
Medical examinations have confirmed that some victims suffered repeated and recent sexual abuse. The authorities have also received new complaints against other establishments in Fez, prompting an expansion of the investigation. Police are reviewing records of accommodation, aid, and living conditions of residents in several centers, and further arrests are possible.
The law under which the suspects are being prosecuted, Law 27.14, provides for harsh penalties for those who abuse their authority or tutelage over minors or vulnerable individuals. The case has sparked widespread concern and outrage, highlighting the need for greater oversight and protection of vulnerable populations in Morocco.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to gather more evidence and testimony from victims and witnesses. The case has also raised questions about the management and regulation of social protection establishments in Morocco, and the need for greater accountability and transparency in the care and protection of vulnerable individuals.
Key points
- Twelve suspects, including 7 women, arrested in Fez for human trafficking and sexual exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
- Investigation reveals serious irregularities in the management of a social protection establishment.
- New complaints have been filed against other establishments in Fez, prompting an expansion of the investigation.
