Ali Lmrabet freed in Morocco but legal threats persist
Ali Lmrabet freed in Morocco but legal threats persist
- RSF_fr
The independent Franco-Moroccan journalist Ali Lmrabet was detained upon arrival in Morocco on July 12 but regained his freedom three days later, following a decision by the Casablanca prosecutor’s office.
“We welcome the release of investigative journalist Ali Lmrabet and the return of his equipment. However, this outcome must not overshadow the fact that the investigation against him remains active, and the charges of ‘allegedly disseminating defamatory digital content targeting individuals and institutions’ linked to his journalistic work have not been dropped. RSF will continue monitoring the situation closely and urges Moroccan authorities to close this case definitively.
After his release on July 15, the prosecutor confirmed the return of Lmrabet’s seized belongings—two laptops, an external storage device, and a smartphone—while noting that the investigation would proceed with technical assessments. The statement warned that “appropriate legal measures” would follow its conclusion.
Lmrabet, who regained his freedom, shared his perspective: “I am a journalist, not a politician. I adhere to no party or ideology—just international journalistic standards. I have never been convicted of defamation, slander, or harming individuals in France, Spain, or Morocco. My independent reporting, which challenges state or security structures, appears to unsettle many. But this is my profession—I earn my living from it, and I practice responsible journalism.”
His wife, Laura Feliu, also commented: “The prosecutor’s decision was justified. The arrest lacked legal basis and violated both national and international law, especially given that the alleged offenses occurred outside Morocco. We urge authorities to dismiss this case entirely so Ali can fully reclaim his rights—including unrestricted travel as any Moroccan citizen.”
A prominent figure in critical journalism, Lmrabet was arrested at Tangier Airport on July 12, transferred to Casablanca’s National Judicial Police Brigade, and placed in custody under allegations of disseminating defamatory digital content against institutions and individuals.
Morocco currently ranks 105th out of 180 in RSF’s 2026 World Press Freedom Index.
