Moroccan Dissident Officer Exposes Drug Smuggling Network Orchestrated by Makhzen to Flood Algeria with Drugs
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a startling revelation, Moroccan dissident officer Issou Abdelilah has provided an exclusive interview to Echorouk News, shedding light on internal power struggles within the royal family, pervasive corruption within the army, and the shocking transformation of the institution into a criminal gang involved in drug smuggling. The disclosures made by Issou raise serious concerns about the stability and security of Morocco and its neighboring countries, particularly Algeria. These statements could have far-reaching implications for the region’s geopolitical landscape.
Internal Turmoil and Power Struggles
According to Issou Abdelilah, the royal family of Morocco is currently embroiled in fierce power struggles, with competing factions seeking influence within the Makhzen regime. This internal turmoil creates a chaotic environment where personal interests often take precedence over the nation’s welfare, leading to instability in the military and overall governance of the country.
From Army to Criminal Organization
Issou Abdelilah’s revelations paint a disturbing picture of the Moroccan army’s involvement in drug smuggling operations. He claims that the army has been transformed into a criminal organization, actively engaging in drug trafficking from South America through Western Sahara to flood Algeria and various European countries. The dissident officer notes that the army employs specialized routes and exploits the desert and Mauritanian borders to transport significant quantities of drugs, primarily hashish and, recently, cocaine. These illicit activities undermine the very institution entrusted with safeguarding the nation’s security and integrity.
Instructions from the Inspector General
Issou asserts that instructions to flood Algeria with drugs are purportedly emanating from the inspector general of the Moroccan forces. Dissenting officers who refuse to comply with these directives reportedly face expulsion or, at best, experience delays in their promotions. Driven by a desire to maintain their positions within the military hierarchy, soldiers implement these orders, raising concerns about corruption and the erosion of trust in the chain of command. The involvement of senior officers in profiting from the drug trade further exacerbates these concerns.
Corruption and Exploitation
Corruption within the Moroccan army, as noted by Issou Abdelilah, appears to be endemic. He suggests that high-ranking officers benefit from smuggling operations, while lower-ranking soldiers endure exploitation and theft. The army has allegedly transformed into a pay-to-play institution, where money dictates recruitment and promotions. Those who resist participating in corrupt practices risk expulsion or find their careers stagnating. These revelations underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms to restore integrity and accountability within the military.
The Royal Palace’s Involvement
Issou Abdelilah implicates the Moroccan palace in controlling the drug market and benefiting financially from it. He claims that General Bennani, a senior military officer, had connections with drug cartels in Latin America. Bennani is said to have overseen the transportation of drugs across the desert and their subsequent delivery to Europe. The dissident officer suggests that the palace receives a share of the drug money, highlighting a significant increase in King Mohammed VI’s wealth.
According to Issou Abdelilah, information from a Spanish press attaché corroborates his claims. He references an encounter with a smuggler named Hamidou El-Deeb, who had communication with the palace to organize drug smuggling operations. El-Deeb claimed to possess a private port exclusively dedicated to drug smuggling, with authorization from the palace to trade weapons.
Issou Abdelilah further speculates that members of the royal family, including the king’s aunt, is benefiting from the drug money, resulting in a rapid accumulation of wealth. The estimated total of $100 billion in King Mohammed VI’s wealth raises questions about the extent of the involvement and the potential impact on Morocco’ stability and reputation.
