The independent Franco-Moroccan journalist Ali Lmrabet walked free on July 15 after being held since his July 12 arrival at Tangier’s airport. The prosecutor’s office in Casablanca ordered his release following a hearing, though the judicial process remains active as technical analyses proceed.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) welcomed the decision but emphasized that charges of ‘allegedly disseminating defamatory digital content against individuals and institutions’ still stand. The organisation called on Moroccan authorities to drop the case entirely.
strong reactions from journalist and family
In a statement, Ali Lmrabet reaffirmed his commitment to independent journalism, stressing that he operates within international professional standards and has never faced convictions for defamation, slander, or harm to individuals in Morocco, France, or Spain. He linked his detention to his critical reporting, which has frequently challenged state and security structures. “I am a journalist, not a politician. I answer to no party or ideology—only to the truth,” he declared.
His wife, Laura Feliu, also condemned the arrest, calling it legally unfounded and a violation of Moroccan law. “The circumstances of his detention make no sense. The alleged offences were supposedly committed abroad, yet he was apprehended upon arrival. We expect this file to be closed permanently so he can resume his life and travel freely, like any Moroccan citizen,” she said.
what happened during detention
Following his July 12 interception at Tangier’s airport, Ali Lmrabet was taken to the National Brigade of Judicial Police in Casablanca. Authorities seized two computers, a storage device, and a mobile phone during the arrest. His belongings were returned upon release, though prosecutors noted that further legal measures may follow once technical evaluations are complete.
Morocco’s press freedom ranking
The North African kingdom ranks 105th out of 180 countries in the 2026 RSF World Press Freedom Index, reflecting persistent challenges for media professionals in the region.