Sahara’s “Escobar” trial postponed due to Bioui’s surgery

Thursday 18 September 2025 - 13:30

By: Sahili Aya

Sahara’s “Escobar” trial postponed due to Bioui’s surgery

The Casablanca Court of Appeal has decided to postpone the high-profile “Escobar of the Sahara” trial to October 2, after the defense of Abdenbi Bioui, one of the main defendants, requested a delay for health reasons.

Bioui, a former leader of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and ex-president of the Oriental region, recently underwent a delicate surgical operation and is expected to face another procedure in the coming days. His lawyers argued that his presence was necessary to ensure a fair trial, especially during witness hearings.

Testimonies in court

Despite Bioui’s absence, the court proceeded with the testimony of several witnesses, including Moroccan singer Latifa Raafat, the ex-wife of drug baron Haj Ahmed Ben Brahim, known as “the Malian” or “Escobar of the Sahara.” His confessions to the national police initially triggered the wide-ranging investigation.

During her testimony, Raafat denied ever attempting to evade justice and requested a confrontation with Saïd Naciri, another key defendant and former president of Wydad Casablanca football club, to “bring the truth to light.” Both men are accused of having ties to Ben Brahim.

Delays and next steps

Other witnesses failed to appear due to administrative or logistical issues, limiting the scope of the hearing.

The next session is scheduled for October 2, 2025, giving Bioui time to recover and appear in person, in line with the principles of fair trial rights.