Marrakech Corruption Scandal Ends After 15-Year Legal Battle

It all began with the sale of the "Casino Saâdi" land at a bargain price, well below its real value. A transaction that immediately aroused suspicions and triggered an investigation. Bribes, abuse of influence, personal enrichment... the revelations followed one another, revealing a well-oiled system of corruption. Some officials, taking advantage of their position, have thus become real estate magnates in record time.

After years of legal proceedings and twists and turns, justice has finally ruled. Sentences of up to five years in prison have been handed down against the main defendants, including Abdelatif Abdaouh, former president of the Menara-Guéliz commune and a figure of the Istiqlal party. The latter was found guilty of the misappropriation of public funds in the case of the transfer of the Casino Saâdi land.

The Court of Cassation has therefore confirmed the convictions handed down on appeal, putting an end to this case. The file will now be transferred to the judicial police for the enforcement of the sentences.