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Rabat – Moroccan security services in Fez arrested members of three criminal groups for alleged possession and trafficking of drugs and psychotropics.
Morocco’s General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) arrested 26 suspects on Monday in close coordination with the prefectural police in Fez.
DGST explained in a press release that the arrest resulted from simultaneous security operations led by Moroccan security services across Fez.
Authorities further reported the seizure of 8 kilograms of cannabis resins, three cars, doses of cocaine, weapons, and cash.
The arrestees are suspected of being active members of three drug trafficking gangs, with some of them having criminal records and others being wanted for alleged involvement in drug trafficking or/and violent crimes, the source added.
The suspects were taken into custody following their arrest. They are currently subject to an investigation led by the prosecutor’s office which is expected to determine the criminal charges associated with each suspect, DGST explained.
As Morocco continues to halt drug trafficking attempts within its borders, the kingdom remains the world’s leading country of origin and departure of cannabis resin.
In June, the World Drug Report 2022 noted that Moroccan drug trafficking networks extend to Libya and Egypt through the Sahel, adding that they also supply the European drug market through Spain.
The report added that Morocco is considered a transit point for cocaine shipment to Europe despite the low local production of the drug.
In an effort to dismantle drug trafficking networks, Morocco has been working closely with European partners, in addition to cracking down on local actors.
In 2021, the Moroccan police handled more than 82,000 cases of drug possession and trafficking, leading to the seizure of 1.4 million psychotropic tablets and the arrest of more than 100,000 suspects.
Read Also: UNODC Report: 284 Million People Used Drugs Worldwide in 2020
