The performer at the center of the widely circulated “tassa video” filmed in the Bni Makada district of Tangier appeared before the public prosecutor at the city’s Court of First Instance on Monday.
The singer was released pending trial, scheduled for April 22, after being charged with public indecency and incitement to moral corruption.
According to informed sources, the defendant — a nightclub entertainer known in Tangier — also faces charges of inciting minors under the age of 18 to engage in prostitution. The public prosecutor ordered his release on bail set at 5,000 dirhams (approximately $500), with proceedings to be held under standard misdemeanor jurisdiction.
The case, which has sparked national outcry and debate over public morals, stems from an unauthorized street performance held during Eid celebrations.
Authorities noted that the event was not licensed, contradicting reports that suggested otherwise. The public prosecution referenced Article 282 of Morocco’s Penal Code, which penalizes unauthorized public acts with imprisonment of up to one year and fines ranging from 1,200 to 100,000 dirhams.
Additionally, the charges fall under Article 502, which criminalizes the public solicitation of individuals — particularly minors — for prostitution, punishable by up to one year in prison and fines of 20,000 to 200,000 dirhams. Given the involvement of children in the audience, prosecutors are expected to seek an enhanced sentence.
Civic organizations that had previously expressed intent to file a lawsuit against the singer have instead chosen to monitor the case, citing satisfaction with the legal actions taken by the prosecution. One child rights advocate said, “We fulfilled our role by raising awareness of the issue. The prosecution took action, so we saw no need to escalate matters further. However, we reserve the right to engage legally if necessary.”
In response to the uproar, Tangier’s local authorities issued strict instructions to regional administrators to prohibit public celebrations during religious holidays without prior authorization. The directive aims to prevent a recurrence of incidents deemed inappropriate or morally offensive, especially those involving minors.
The incident — which saw controversial music played in a public setting during a religious holiday — continues to generate strong reactions across social media, with many calling for tighter regulation of public performances.
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