Marrakech: the judicial epilogue of the “Casino Saâdi” affair

The Court of Cassation has just put an end to the “Casino Saâdi” affair which has shaken Marrakech for more than fifteen years. This legal drama, worthy of a film, involves a vast network of corruption and embezzlement of public funds within the municipality. Elected officials, civil servants and even real estate developers are involved in this affair which has hit the headlines.

It all started with the sale of the land of the “Casino Saâdi” at a bargain price, well below its real value. A transaction which immediately aroused suspicion and triggered an investigation. Bribes, abuse of influence, personal enrichment… the revelations follow one another, revealing a well-oiled system of corruption. Some officials, taking advantage of their position, have become real real estate tycoons in record time.