Drug trafficking and murders in Forest 33 in Mohammedia: several arrests
Forest 33 in Mohammedia has become a centre of drug trafficking and violence, with two young men found dead. Authorities have launched extensive security operations.
Forest 33 in Mohammedia, criminal networks stronghold dismantled after two murders
On the outskirts of Mansouria, in the suburbs of Mohammedia, "Forest 33" — also known as Oued Nfifikh — has transformed into a lawless zone dominated by drug traffickers. According to fr.le360.ma, citing the daily newspaper Al Ahdath Al Maghribia of Thursday, 5 November, the site is now nicknamed the "graveyard of young people" and serves as a stronghold for criminal gangs operating out of sight, beneath a forest canopy shrouded in the smoke of chira, kif and crack.
The scale of the phenomenon came to light with the discovery of a network of tents and makeshift huts erected in the heart of the woods. These structures served both as shelters for criminals and fugitives on the run, and as storage and distribution points for drugs of several types. Preliminary investigations established the central role of this zone in local drug trafficking, fuelling insecurity on the doorstep of Casablanca.
Law enforcement carried out a series of raids that made it possible to dismantle these illegal installations. Seizures included substantial quantities of prohibited products, as well as bladed weapons and communication equipment. Videos and photographs widely shared on social media documented the extent of trafficking, showing burnt-out tents, burned motorcycles and clear traces of criminal activity.
The investigation further led to the arrest of several individuals suspected of belonging to these networks. Searches are continuing to identify all accomplices and those responsible for the trafficking operating in the shadows. The most serious revelations concern the murder of two young men, whose bodies were found in the forest after several days of disappearance. According to Al Ahdath Al Maghribia, the victims, who frequented this zone, were caught in settling of scores between rival factions competing for control of the local drug market.
Faced with this situation, local authorities have intensified their sweep operations in the Mohammedia and Bouznika region. The stated objective is twofold: to neutralise criminal cells still active and restore public order in a sector that has long escaped control by institutions. The mobilisation of gendarmerie units, supported by canine units and air assets, illustrates the determination of public authorities to eradicate these centres of criminality. This episode has moreover reignited debate on the need for a comprehensive response combining public security, prevention and support for young people to contain the proliferation of drug trafficking networks on the outskirts of major Moroccan cities.
Source: Google News MA — Crime (fr)