Illegal substances discovered in Eid food baskets sent to Moroccan prisons

Tuesday 08 April 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Illegal substances discovered in Eid food baskets sent to Moroccan prisons

The Moroccan prison authority has reported incidents of illegal substances being smuggled into several prisons during the Eid Al Fitr holiday. Families of inmates exploited a temporary exception that permitted the delivery of food baskets, known as "qaffa," to conceal illegal items, including psychotropic pills, within sweets and other food items.

Authorities issued a warning regarding the serious implications these substances pose to prison security and discipline. The General Delegation for Prison Administration (DGAPR) stated that immediate legal action was taken against those involved, and relevant public prosecutors were notified.

The DGAPR emphasized that the "qaffa" was the primary method used for smuggling these illegal substances and declared that such actions would no longer be tolerated. Moving forward, all necessary measures will be implemented to safeguard the safety and security of prisoners, staff, and prison facilities.

The initiative allowing families to deliver food baskets to inmates was intended as a special gesture for Eid Al Fitr, representing an exception to the usual prohibition on such deliveries. The delegation confirmed that this allowance was made for one week, starting from the second day of Eid, according to a schedule established by prison authorities. This measure aims to enhance prisoners' mental well-being and reinforce family bonds during the holiday, extending to foreign inmates who can receive baskets via diplomatic channels.

Historically, Moroccan families had the opportunity to bring food baskets to relatives in prison. However, this practice was curtailed following several incidents of illegal items, including drugs, being smuggled into prison facilities. Currently, the prison authority permits food baskets only during certain religious occasions, such as Eid Al Fitr.