فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The subsidized flour scandal continues to stir controversy in Morocco, particularly in the Fes-Meknes region, where judicial authorities have taken a decisive step in the development of investigations. The Public Prosecutor’s Office at the Court of Appeal in Fes has ordered a comprehensive technical analysis of mobile phones seized from a number of suspects. This operation aims to shed light on communications, correspondence, and potential relationships between individuals involved in the investigation, in order to decode the network manipulating subsidized resources.
Investigations Reveal Illegal Practices
The case began when a notable from the Taounate region filed a complaint several months ago regarding irregularities in the management of subsidized wheat flour, which is considered a strategic product benefiting from financial support from the Compensation Fund. This complaint prompted authorities to open investigations that expanded to include mills in Fes, Moulouya, and Yacoub, in addition to a number of employees and workers in the national subsidy system. As investigations developed, suspicions increased, prompting the Public Prosecutor’s Office to take strict preventive measures such as prohibiting a number of officials from leaving national territory, while their passports may be confiscated until investigations are completed.
Seizure of Spoiled and Unfit Flour
Initial investigation results revealed alarming practices in several production units in Dokkarat and Ras El Ma in Moulay Yacoub province. The judicial police, in coordination with representatives of the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA), conducted monitoring operations that resulted in the seizure of 115 tons of subsidized flour unfit for consumption, a figure that shocked public opinion.
The main objective of the investigations is to uncover the methods used by those involved to divert subsidized flour – which is normally sold at 2 dirhams per kilogram – into regular flour sold at market prices, allowing for significant profits at the expense of the poor.
Suspicions of Collusion Between Mill Owners and Administrative Services
The scandal is not limited to one case. Other investigations, particularly in the Taounate region, have revealed the involvement of some mill owners in forging invoices and administrative documents to cover up the true source of flour. Some administrative services may also have facilitated the distribution of flour without conducting careful monitoring of its quality or source.
Controversial Statements in Parliament
The case gained national dimension after controversial statements by MP Ahmed Touizi during discussions of the 2026 Finance Bill. The parliamentarian publicly stated that some companies may be mixing ground paper with subsidized flour destined for consumers. These accusations, which were widely circulated on social media, sparked a wave of condemnation, prompting the Public Prosecutor’s Office to intensify investigations to uncover the circumstances of this scandal.
Mobile Phone Analysis: A Decisive Step in Uncovering the Truth
As part of ongoing investigations, the Public Prosecutor’s Office has ordered the analysis of mobile phones seized from a number of suspects. This analysis is expected to play a crucial role in revealing relationships and communications between the parties involved, which will help determine the methods used in the manipulation operation. Investigators hope that these technical examinations will help uncover the network involved and provide the necessary evidence to support the investigations.
Preventive Measures and Travel Restrictions
To prevent any escape attempts, preventive measures have been taken including prohibiting some officials from leaving the country, while their passports may be temporarily confiscated until investigations are completed.
The Case Continues to Develop
Investigations continue to reveal more facts about this scandal that threatens a basic income source for vulnerable social groups in Morocco. Mobile phone analyses represent a decisive step that may reveal more details about the networks involved in this case. This case points to the necessity of strengthening monitoring mechanisms for subsidized resources to ensure their use in serving the most needy groups and protecting consumer rights.
