HIBAPRESS
The Criminal Court of First Instance at the Court of Appeal in El Jadida issued severe sentences in the case of the abuse of a minor during the Moulay Abdellah Amghar season, after convicting six defendants to 15 years in prison each, bringing the total sentences to 90 years in prison. This decision came in a session that extended to the late hours of Tuesday night, after the court was convinced of their involvement in the case.
The case dates back to the sexual assault of a minor child from the city of Youssoufia during his participation in the season's activities, which is one of the largest popular seasons in Morocco. The incident mobilized local public opinion and human rights organizations, prompting the security and judicial authorities to open an in-depth investigation that ended with the arrest of six suspects and their placement in pre-trial detention. After completing the detailed investigation and hearing all those involved, the investigating judge concluded their prosecution on charges of "abuse of a minor," and the file was referred to the Criminal Chamber, which quickly adjudicated it, given its sensitivity and nature related to the protection of childhood. These rulings come to form a firm message against crimes of assault on minors within public spaces and traditional seasons.
