Sentences confirmed in case of drug lord

The court of appeal of Tetouan confirmed early this Wednesday morning prison sentences delivered last May against main defendants in the case of drug lord Mounir Erramach and his accomplices.

Four defendants had their prison sentences slightly reduced and three others were acquitted.

Twenty four members of the group, sued for international drug trafficking, criminal association, murder attempt, kidnapping, sequestration, forgery, possession of firearms and corruption were sentenced to prison terms ranging from life imprisonment to 8 months.

The 20-year prison term handed out against the main defendant, Mounir Erramach, was maintained. He also got a fine of 3,372 billion Dirhams (over US$ 40 million) to be paid to the customs authority.

A key member of the gang, still on the run, was condemned in absentia to life imprisonment.

After over 30 attorneys made their argument on Tuesday, the court start deliberations around 8pm and announced its verdict on Wednesday at 6.00 am amidst tight security measures.

Erramach was arrested after a fight broke out in August 2003 between two gangs, dragging with him seventeen other people in Tetuan (northern Morocco).

Investigations in the case have led also to the arrest of senior police, county police and customs officials, as well as magistrates, court clerks, a local official and businessmen who were accused of "power abuse, corruption, embezzlement of public funds, drug trafficking, non-denunciation and non-respect of professional confidentiality."

Investigations have shown that Erramach has established dubious relations with these people to facilitate his illegal activities.