Moroccans demand justice for 13-year-old boy gang-raped at cultural festival
A horrific case of gang rape involving a 13-year-old boy has sparked outrage across Morocco, raising serious questions about the safety and oversight of public events. The incident occurred during the annual Moulay Abdellah Amghar festival in El Jadida province, a major cultural gathering attended by thousands.
The victim's ordeal
The boy, identified as W.B., is an orphan whose mother suffers from mental illness. He attended the festival with a group of young men from Youssoufia, Sifi Benour, and Sifi Ahmed. Over several days, the group drugged and repeatedly sexually assaulted him. Upon regaining consciousness, the boy realized that 14 men had attacked him.
After returning to Youssoufia in a deeply traumatized state, he confided in his neighbors, who often care for him due to his mother’s illness. The neighbors immediately reported the case to local authorities and took him to Youssoufia's provincial hospital. Given his critical condition, he was transferred to the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakesh for advanced care.
Public outrage and official response
The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has condemned the attack, calling it a grave violation of human rights and Moroccan law. The organization has urged the Attorney General in Rabat to launch an urgent investigation, identify the perpetrators, and ensure justice is served.
AMDH also highlighted Morocco's responsibilities under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and demanded stronger state measures to protect minors from violence and exploitation. The group stressed the need for specialized units to safeguard women and children and called for psychological treatment for the victim.
Widespread condemnation
The case has ignited widespread anger on social media, with Moroccans questioning how such a heinous crime could occur during a high-profile cultural event. Many pointed to prior allegations of abuse, drug use, and misconduct at the festival, urging authorities to address systemic issues.
The public is demanding a thorough investigation and severe punishment for the perpetrators, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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