Moroccan Authorities investigate fraud allegations against contractors in Al Haouz earthquake reconstruction

Moroccan authorities are investigating multiple contractors accused of defrauding victims of the Al Haouz earthquake during reconstruction efforts. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that one contractor has been arrested, while another is being sought under a search warrant.

The allegations involve contractors failing to complete reconstruction projects or adhering to technical standards outlined in their contracts. According to the ministry, a contractor from Douar Bouzouq Aït Mellou allegedly defrauded 14 beneficiaries in Douar Taghzout and four in Douar Tinmel by abandoning projects mid-construction.

The local authorities intervened, urging the contractor to either resume work in compliance with regulations or refund the victims. The contractor was later arrested by the Royal Gendarmerie in Aït Melloul.

Another contractor from Douar Tassa Weirkan is accused of breaching agreements with beneficiaries from Douar Al Arab in Asni Commune. He is currently at large and the subject of an ongoing search. A third contractor from Beni Mellal reportedly violated contracts with nine beneficiaries in villages under the jurisdiction of Weirkan, prompting authorities to advise the victims to file individual complaints with the prosecutor’s office.

The Ministry of Interior denied allegations that local officials endorsed these contractors, though two representatives were questioned. Both claimed their involvement was limited to facilitating contractors’ work and monitoring reconstruction progress. However, disciplinary action has been taken in one case, with a rural official from Douar Mriqa dismissed on Dec. 2 for allegedly soliciting bribes from earthquake victims in exchange for expedited aid.

Mohamed Ghalloussi, president of the Moroccan Association for the Protection of Public Funds, criticized the lack of oversight in the reconstruction process. “Leaving contractual agreements between contractors and victims without state intervention is irresponsible,” he said, urging the government to establish a regulatory framework for disaster recovery projects.

Abdelilah Benabdelsalam, coordinator of the Moroccan Coalition of Human Rights Organizations, condemned the exploitation of disaster victims, calling it a symptom of declining societal values. “This behavior reflects a disregard for ethics and humanity,” he said, advocating for stronger education and media efforts to promote human rights.

Both activists emphasized the importance of accountability and judicial oversight. While Benabdelsalam noted the principle of presumed innocence, he urged swift judicial action to determine responsibility and deliver justice.

The fraud allegations underscore the need for stronger governance and oversight in Morocco’s disaster recovery efforts, as victims continue to face challenges in rebuilding their lives.