Fes Prosecutor's Office Takes Action on Inmate Allegations
In a recent press conference held by a lawyer from the Fes Bar Association, the Public Prosecutor at the Court of Appeal in Fes responded to inquiries regarding a complaint submitted by an inmate currently serving a prison sentence. The prosecutor noted that the complaint had not been investigated, raising questions about the procedural handling of such claims. The inmate, who was incarcerated at Ras El Ma local prison at the time, filed his complaint on June 23, 2025, through his legal representative, alleging that he was subjected to extortion and threats of imprisonment during the 2021 electoral campaign.
In a detailed communiqué, the prosecutor’s office emphasized its commitment to addressing the inmate's complaint. An investigation was promptly initiated, which involved the Deputy Public Prosecutor visiting the correctional facility on three separate occasions to hear the inmate's account and request additional evidence to support his allegations. On August 8, 2025, during the first visit, the inmate declined to provide a statement, citing fatigue. The second encounter, on August 11, 2025, also resulted in the inmate refusing to speak, indicating he needed to consult with his legal counsel. The third visit on August 17, 2025, concluded similarly, with the inmate asserting that he would not provide any remarks due to his initiation of a hunger strike.
The prosecutor's office expressed concern over the inmate's refusal to cooperate, despite the multiple efforts made to facilitate the investigation. This reluctance raises significant questions about the intentions behind the initial complaint. The communiqué further elaborated that due to the inmate's lack of statements, and the absence of substantial evidence to corroborate his claims, the prosecutor decided to temporarily shelve the complaint on August 29, 2025. Despite notifying the inmate of this decision, he refused to acknowledge receipt of the communication.
On July 14, 2026, the inmate's defense submitted a request to the prosecutor's office to lift the temporary shelve status of the complaint. However, upon review, it was found that the request lacked any new evidence or elements that would warrant reconsideration. The prosecutor's office reiterated that ample opportunities had been provided for the inmate to substantiate his claims, but to no avail, leading to the decision to maintain the shelved status.
In closing, the Public Prosecutor at the Court of Appeal in Fes indicated that after reviewing statements made by the inmate's defense during the press conference—details that were not previously included in the original complaint—the office intends to continue its investigation into the allegations and pursue necessary legal actions accordingly.
As reported by hespress.com.
