Rabat – Morocco’s public prosecutor has requested a judicial investigation into 21 people in connection with the collapse of two residential buildings in Fez after authorities identified serious violations.
The tragedy, which happened in December 2025, claimed the lives of 22 people and injured 16 others. The incident deeply shook the city of Fez and much of Morocco.
The King’s Prosecutor at the Court of Appeal in Fez said in a statement that the decision follows an earlier inquiry by the public prosecutor at the Court of First Instance.
According to the statement, technical inspections and expert reports found several serious violations. These include the construction of additional floors without legal permits, the use of second-hand building materials, and the illegal transfer of “air rights.”
This means illegally selling or using the right to build extra floors above the property without proper permits or legal authorization.
Investigators also identified irregular property sales conducted outside the legal framework and the issuance of housing certificates that did not comply with existing laws and regulations.
Based on these findings, prosecutors have asked the investigating judge to open a formal inquiry into the 21 suspects. The charges include involuntary manslaughter and injury, bribery and corruption, illegal handling of non-transferable property, complicity, and the unlawful issuance of administrative certificates.
The investigating judge has ordered the detention of eight individuals, while the remaining suspects are being investigated without custody.
The prosecutor’s office said it will continue to monitor the case closely and ensure the proper application of the law, while keeping the public informed of any developments.
