France demands its fugitives from Morocco

The annual report of the Public Prosecutor’s Office reveals a 25% increase in extradition requests received by Morocco. In total, 13 countries have asked Rabat to recover 52 individuals.

In this area, France is by far in the lead. The Hexagon is the source of more than 40% of the requests (21 cases), far ahead of the United States, Belgium or Spain. Morocco is fully cooperating: the execution rate of these requests reaches 65%, with the majority of fugitives being sent back home to answer for their acts, mainly related to international drug trafficking.

Spain, a land of asylum for fugitives?

Conversely, when Morocco demands its own fugitives, the machinery jams. In 2024, the Moroccan justice system issued 90 extradition requests, more than half (46 cases) destined for Spain, which has become the preferred destination for fleeing criminals, followed by France and Belgium.

The problem? The return rate is low. Only 27.5% of Moroccan requests have been successful. A glaring imbalance compared to the 65% efficiency when it is Morocco that has to deliver.

The profiles sought by Rabat mainly concern drug trafficking and the organization of illegal immigration. This report shows the need for European partners to accelerate procedures in order not to leave impunity to take hold on the other side of the Mediterranean.