Marrakech Prison: Algerian Sentenced Over Insulting Viral Videos

Moroccan justice has delivered its verdict in the case involving Mohamed R., imposing a five-month prison sentence without parole along with a fine of 5,000 dirhams. The Marrakech criminal court upheld the charges of insult, defamation, and “incitement to hatred.”

Also read: Insulting videos targeting Morocco: Police stop an Algerian at the border

The man was arrested on January 11 at Mohammed-V Airport in Casablanca while attempting to leave the kingdom for Paris. The arrest, carried out “under the authority of the competent public prosecutor’s office,” marked the beginning of criminal proceedings initiated “in accordance with the applicable legal rules,” judicial authorities specified.

Also read: Marrakech: 8 months in prison for an Algerian supporter who tore up banknotes

At the heart of the case are videos posted on social media in which the individual made “insulting remarks” and “undermined the dignity of the residents of the city of Marrakech.” The investigation established that the posts conveyed accusations deemed “serious” against Moroccan citizens.

The videos caused “widespread outrage” online and led private individuals to file several complaints and formal reports.

https://x.com/MoroccoIntel/status/2010405558315073688