Casablanca – El Hail Zitouni, the esteemed director of public security in Morocco, passed away on Thursday evening at the Military Hospital in Rabat, leaving behind a profound legacy after more than forty years of commendable service in the National Security sector. His death was confirmed by Morocco’s General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) on Friday, marking the end of an era for a figure who dedicated his life to the safety and security of his nation.
Throughout his illustrious career, Zitouni held several prominent security positions, showcasing his leadership and expertise in the field. One of his significant roles was as the head of the Marrakech Security Prefecture, a position he embraced after serving as the regional security chief in Ouarzazate since 2003. His transition to Marrakech in 2008 marked a pivotal moment in his career, as he took on greater responsibilities in overseeing the safety of this vibrant city.
In August 2012, Zitouni was appointed to the DGSN’s central administration in Rabat, where he further solidified his influence in national security matters. He eventually ascended to the role of director of public security at the national police directorate, a position he held with distinction until his untimely passing. During his tenure, he represented the DGSN at numerous national and international events, demonstrating his commitment to addressing critical issues such as violence against women. In a notable presentation in Casablanca in 2021, he shared alarming statistics, revealing that police recorded 50,844 cases of violence against women in 2020, affecting 47,033 victims, with minors comprising 9% of those victims.
Moreover, in March 2023, Zitouni was instrumental in launching Morocco’s “My Missing Child” initiative, a collaborative effort between the DGSN and Meta, aimed at leveraging social media to assist in locating missing children. This initiative highlighted his forward-thinking approach in adapting modern technology for the benefit of society.
In August 2024, he spearheaded a significant security operation in Marrakech, which involved approximately 1,200 officers from various units, including traffic police, public security, and judicial police. This operation yielded impressive results, with 2,956 arrests made and 415 vehicles seized, showcasing his commitment to maintaining law and order.
In his final public engagements, Zitouni was actively involved in discussions surrounding the security measures necessary for major sporting events, particularly in preparation for Morocco’s hosting of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the preparations for the 2030 World Cup. His extensive experience and insights were invaluable as the nation gears up for these significant occasions.
The DGSN has expressed its heartfelt condolences to the family of El Hail Zitouni, recognizing his invaluable contributions to public security in Morocco. They have directed central directorates and the Mohammed VI Foundation for National Security Employees’ Social Works to extend support to his bereaved family, reflecting the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
