Rabat – The Ain Sebaa First Instance Court in the Casablanca region has announced prison and fine sentences, including suspended verdicts, against three family members of Hicham Jerando, a YouTuber convicted of forming a terrorist group and using social media to spread threats, false information, and incite violence.
The verdict included a suspended two-month prison sentence and a fine of MAD 20,000 against Jerando’s sister as well as two years in prison and a fine of MAD 40,000 against her husband, according to converging reports.
Jerando’s nephew also received a three-year prison sentence with a MAD 40,000 fine, the reports added.
Four other suspects alleged to be involved in the case were also convicted, with two receiving three-year prison sentences, while the third suspect received two years.
The fourth defendant was handed a one-year prison sentence and a MAD 40,000 fine.
The suspects were facing several charges, including participation in insulting a constitutional and organized body, disseminating false allegations with the aim of infringing on privacy and defamation, as well as threats and insults against a lawyer.
Earlier this month, Canadian resident Jerando received a sentence of 15 years in prison in absentia.
He faced charges of creating a terrorist group that aimed to seriously disturb public order through online campaigns involving threats and manipulation on social media.
The case started in March after a woman filed a complaint against Jerando, accusing him of blackmail.
Morocco’s National Judicial Police (BNPJ) launched an investigation, which led to the arrest of five people close to Jerando in Casablanca, including his sister.
Security services believe Jerando’s relatives helped him carry out his actions by providing him with digital tools and participating in the production of defamatory videos.
