University student to stand trial over alleged role in organizing irregular migration through WhatsApp group

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Suspect detained (illustrative photo)

The Misdemeanors Chamber of the Fez Court of First Instance is expected to hear, on September 7, the case of a 22-year-old university student suspected of inciting irregular migration and organizing and facilitating the departure of people from Moroccan territory through locations other than designated border crossings.

On 11/08/2026 at 12h30

The case stems from an investigation launched by the Royal Gendarmerie in Fez after authorities identified a WhatsApp group allegedly being used to coordinate between people seeking to undertake irregular migration and plan their journey toward northern Morocco. The investigation, including technical inquiries, led to the identification of the suspect, who was subsequently detained by officers from the Royal Gendarmerie’s judicial center in the Al Massira district of Fez, in coordination with the relevant services at the Royal Gendarmerie’s central command.

According to the available information, the group included people from different parts of Morocco who exchanged information and details about the means and methods for carrying out crossings. Some members had reportedly reached an advanced stage in preparations for these operations.

After being placed in police custody and questioned as part of a judicial investigation supervised by the competent public prosecutor’s office, the student, who is in his first year of a private law program, was brought before the King’s Prosecutor at the Fez Court of First Instance.

The prosecution decided to release him pending trial on bail of 2,000 dirhams. He is due to appear before the court on the scheduled date, while technical and judicial investigations are continuing to identify other potential suspects and determine the full scope of the case.

By Youssra Jaoual
On 11/08/2026 at 12h30