Rabat – Authorities in the Kiko commune near Fez have launched an extensive investigation following reports of sexual abuse involving several schoolgirls. The case has shocked the community and Moroccans across the country are demanding justice for the victims.
The case reportedly began when one of the victims attempted suicide after being threatened with the release of a video recorded by a friend.
According to converging reports, the abuse occurred in two different schools in the Kiko area. The investigation revealed that a network of perpetrators, including individuals identified as a bouncer, a farmer, and a hairdresser, were responsible for exploiting the underage girls.
The incident came to light after the victim’s family filed a complaint following the suicide attempt and threats of publishing a compromising video. Authorities have since arrested several suspects and are interrogating them, with more arrests expected as investigations continue.
Human rights groups have called for immediate legal action and psychological support for the victims. In addition, several Moroccans took to social media to express their shock over the incident, as well as call for urgent measures to protect and support the victims and their families.
Others have called for stricter penalties for the perpetrators to prevent the recurrence of such crimes. Many have pointed to the lenient sentences handed down in similar cases, such as the Tiflet rape case, in which an 11-year-old girl was gang-raped by three men, one of whom impregnated her. Despite the gravity of the crime, the perpetrators were sentenced to only two years each.
In addition, Member of Parliament Mohamed Chouki from the National Rally of Independents submitted a written question to Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, Naima Ben Yahia, regarding the case.
Chouki warned that the abuse has left a deep psychological impact on the community and urged the ministry to ensure that the affected schoolgirls receive prompt legal and psychological assistance.
