Authorities Detain Suspect in Gang Rape of 13-Year-Old Boy at Moulay Abdellah Festival

Rabat – Moroccan authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the brutal gang rape of a 13-year-old boy during the annual Moulay Abdellah Amghar festival in El Jadida province.

The Attorney General at the Court of Appeal in El Jadida announced on Tuesday that an adult man has been placed in police custody on suspicion of involvement in the crime. 

In a statement, the attorney general confirmed that the identities of other suspects have been determined and that investigations are still underway to locate them.

A judicial inquiry has been opened into the case. On Monday, the child underwent a forensic medical examination and gave his testimony in the presence of his mother. Authorities stressed that judicial and security services are continuing their efforts to uncover all the circumstances and identify everyone responsible.

A vile and devastating crime

The case involves a 13-year-old boy from Youssoufia who lost his father and whose mother suffers from a serious mental illness. He attended the festival with a group of young men from Youssoufia, Sidi Bennour, and Sidi Ahmed.

According to reports, the boy was repeatedly drugged and sexually abused over several days, beginning on Tuesday of the festival week. When he regained consciousness, he discovered that 14 men had assaulted him.

After returning home on Friday, the boy revealed what had happened to his neighbors, who often care for him due to his mother’s illness. They immediately reported the case to the police and took him to the provincial hospital in Youssoufia. Because of his serious condition, he was later transferred to Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakech for specialized treatment. 

Human rights groups demand action

The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has strongly condemned the crime, describing it as a grave violation of children’s rights and Moroccan law. In a letter signed by Mohamed Yassir, head of AMDH’s local committee in Youssoufia, the association urged the Attorney General in Rabat to ensure accountability for all perpetrators and justice for the victim.

AMDH also noted Morocco’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and called for stronger protection mechanisms for minors, including special units to protect women and children from sexual violence. The group further demanded psychological support for the victim.

The case has sparked anger and disbelief among Moroccans, many of whom took to social media to denounce the crime and question how such an incident could occur at a major cultural festival attended by thousands.

“We cannot stay silent about these crimes, especially the rape of minors and childs which destroys their entire lives,” a social media user said.

Some also claimed that the festival has previously been associated with abuse, drug use, and superstitious practices.