Marrakech Police Officer Faces Corruption Charges: Disciplinary and Judicial Proceedings Initiated

Marrakech Police Investigate Officer Over Alleged Bribery

by The editorial Staff | August 9,2025,12:28 AM

The Marrakech police prefecture has launched a formal investigation into a road traffic officer suspected of soliciting a bribe from a motorist. The inquiry began Friday, August 8, following the circulation of a video on social media.

According to a statement released by the Directorate General for National Security (DGSN), the video appears to show the officer requesting an amount different from the fine listed on the official violation report. Officials believe this indicates a potential attempt to illegally obtain funds.

an administrative investigation is underway to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged incident. The DGSN stated the goal is to clarify responsibilities and impose appropriate disciplinary and judicial sanctions.

The officer in question has been provisionally suspended from duty, consistent with the disciplinary regulations governing national security officials. This action was taken pending the outcome of the investigation.

What specific evidence prompted the DGSN’s internal affairs division to initiate an inquiry into the Marrakech police officer?

Allegations and Initial Investigation

A senior police officer in Marrakech, Morocco, is currently facing serious corruption charges, triggering both internal disciplinary proceedings and a formal judicial investigation. The allegations,which surfaced on August 7th,2025,center around accusations of accepting bribes in exchange for overlooking violations related to building permits and tourist visa facilitation. Sources within the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) confirm the officer, whose name is being withheld pending the ongoing investigation, held a position of authority within the Marrakech regional police force.

the initial investigation was prompted by a series of anonymous complaints filed with the DGSN’s internal affairs division.These complaints detailed specific instances of alleged bribery, including claims that the officer facilitated the approval of construction projects that did not meet regulatory standards. The complaints also allege involvement in streamlining the visa process for certain individuals,potentially bypassing standard security protocols. Police corruption is a serious concern in Morocco, and the DGSN has publicly stated its commitment to clarity and accountability.

Disciplinary Actions Taken

Following the preliminary findings of the internal investigation,the officer has been suspended from duty without pay. This immediate suspension underscores the seriousness with which the DGSN is treating the allegations.

Key disciplinary actions include:

Suspension: immediate removal from all official duties.

Asset Review: A extensive review of the officer’s personal assets is underway to identify any unexplained wealth. This is a standard procedure in corruption investigations within Morocco.

Internal Audit: A thorough audit of the officer’s past decisions and actions is being conducted to uncover any further evidence of wrongdoing.

Witness interviews: Internal affairs investigators are conducting interviews with colleagues, subordinates, and individuals who may have interacted with the officer in a professional capacity.

Judicial Proceedings and Potential Charges

Parallel to the internal disciplinary process, a formal judicial investigation has been launched by the public prosecutor’s office in marrakech. This investigation is being led by a specialized anti-corruption unit. Potential charges the officer could face include:

Acceptance of Bribes: A criminal offense under Moroccan law, carrying significant penalties including imprisonment and substantial fines.

Abuse of Power: Utilizing one’s official position for personal gain.

Forgery and falsification of Documents: Related to the alleged manipulation of building permits and visa applications.

Complicity in Illegal Construction: Facilitating construction projects that violate building codes and regulations.

The judicial process will involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and potentially examining financial records. The officer has been granted legal depiction and is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The investigation is expected to take several weeks, if not months, to complete. Moroccan law dictates a rigorous process for prosecuting corruption cases.

Impact on Marrakech’s Tourism and Investment Climate

This case has the potential to impact Marrakech’s reputation as a safe and reliable destination for tourists and investors.Marrakech tourism is a vital component of the Moroccan economy, and any perception of corruption could deter visitors and foreign investment.

investor Confidence: Concerns about corruption can erode investor confidence, leading to a decrease in foreign direct investment.

Tourist Perception: Negative publicity surrounding corruption can damage the image of marrakech as a tourist destination.

Government Response: The swift action taken by the DGSN and the public prosecutor’s office demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing corruption and maintaining a positive image.

Transparency initiatives: Increased calls for greater transparency and accountability within the police force and other government institutions.

Recent Anti-Corruption Efforts in Morocco

This incident occurs amidst a broader national effort to combat corruption in Morocco. In recent years, the Moroccan government has implemented several initiatives aimed at strengthening anti-corruption measures, including:

establishment of the National Anti-Corruption commission (CNA): an independent body tasked with investigating and prosecuting corruption cases.

Strengthening of Whistleblower Protection Laws: Encouraging individuals to report corruption without fear of retaliation.

Increased transparency in Public Procurement: Making government contracts and bidding processes more open and accessible to the public.

Digitalization of Government Services: Reducing opportunities for corruption by minimizing face-to-face interactions between citizens and government officials.

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