Illegal tour guide arrested in Marrakech for extorting foreign tourist at Jemaa el-Fna Square

The Correctional Chamber at the Court of First Instance in Marrakech issued a verdict last night, Thursday, sentencing an individual operating as an illegal tour guide, known by the nickname “Foukide,” to 15 months in prison.

Details of the incident and security intervention at Jemaa el-Fna

The case stems from a field intervention by the tourist brigade, which successfully apprehended the suspect in the famous Jemaa el-Fna square. The intervention followed the suspect’s actions in cornering a Belgian tourist, harassing her, and demanding money from her under duress and threats.

Serious charges and habitual recidivism

The public prosecutor charged the suspect with a list of serious offenses, including extortion, threats, and public intoxication. The prosecution also emphasized the aggravating circumstances resulting from multiple previous convictions.

The case file included his history of recidivism in fraud and theft, as well as the charge of impersonation of a tour guide without a legal license, prompting the court to impose the prison sentence along with a fine of 3,000 dirhams and legal costs.