Rabat – The investigation into allegations of rape involving three Moroccan men from prominent wealthy families has taken a new turn, with authorities extending their custody by 24 hours to allow further probing by the National Brigade of Judicial Police (BNPJ), Le360 reported.
The alleged sexual assault occurred during a high-profile party earlier this month, and the suspects, identified as Kamil B., M’hammed A., and Saad S., were arrested on November 20 in Casablanca, added the report.
The rape accusations were made by a young French lawyer, who said she was allegedly sexually assaulted in Casablanca during a party held at the residence of Kamil B., a member of a prominent family in the pharmaceutical industry. The party was reportedly attended by around 100 guests, including the two other suspects, both of whom are also from influential families.
The victim’s companion, Mohamed Amine N., who is a high-ranking official at the Confédération générale des entreprises du Maroc (CGEM), is the cousin of Kamil B.
The complainant filed her report on November 21 and provided authorities with medical documentation from Paris as evidence of signs of sexual assault and physical trauma.
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According to initial reports, Kamil B. admitted to having a sexual encounter with the complainant but insisted it was consensual. The other two suspects, M’hammed A. and Saad S., denied any sexual involvement. Guests and staff who were present during the gathering were interviewed as part of the investigation.
The three suspects have been held for the maximum 72 hours allowed by Moroccan law, but the period has now been extended for further investigation.
After the extended custody period ends, the suspects are expected to be presented before the judiciary, with the prosecutor likely forwarding the case to an investigating judge due to the gravity of the accusations.
The case has sparked widespread attention due to the high social status of those involved. Many have taken to social media to voice support for the legal proceedings, calling for justice despite the suspects’ social status.
But some expressed concerns about whether the investigation and legal proceedings would be handled the same way if the complainant were Moroccan rather than a foreigner.
