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Society

Fatal Police Operation in Beni Mellal Leads to Prison Sentence for Drug Trafficking Suspect

Wednesday 08 January 2025 - 09:20

A court in Beni Mellal has handed down prison sentences to two individuals following a tragic security operation that resulted in the death of police officer Abdelghni Redouane. The primary defendant, a 34-year-old man who was wanted on four national warrants for drug trafficking, received a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence, while his accomplice was sentenced to two and a half years.

The incident unfolded on December 17, 2024, during an arrest operation by the Anti-Gang Unit in Beni Mellal. As officers attempted to apprehend the main suspect, he resisted arrest and brandished a knife against law enforcement personnel. In the ensuing confrontation, a police officer's service weapon discharged accidentally, fatally wounding Officer Redouane in the chest. Despite immediate transportation to the hospital, Redouane did not survive his injuries.

In recognition of his service and sacrifice, General Director of National Security and Territorial Surveillance (DGSN-DGST) Abdellatif Hammouchi posthumously promoted Redouane to the rank of police sergeant, with benefits extended to his family.

The main defendant, who was successfully arrested during the operation along with his accomplice, had been sought by authorities in connection with multiple cases involving drug trafficking and psychotropic substances. The court delivered its verdict on Monday as a first-instance ruling, in a case that has highlighted the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers during security operations.

The incident has drawn significant attention to the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty and the ongoing challenges in combating drug trafficking in the region.

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