Moroccan court sentences former politicians in drug trafficking case

A Moroccan court in Casablanca has sentenced two former members of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), Abdenbi Bioui and Saïd Naciri, to 12 and 10 years in prison respectively. The verdict, delivered on Thursday, June 25, concludes the first instance of a high-profile international drug trafficking case, locally dubbed the "Pablo Escobar of the Sahara" affair. Bioui and Naciri faced multiple charges, including participation in an international narcotics network. Local media have described the sentences as "heavy." Defense lawyers for both men have indicated their intention to appeal the Casablanca court's decision, suggesting a second trial is anticipated.

Sources: Le Monde — International