Arrest of Maes in Casablanca: An International Collaboration

Moroccan authorities have arrested Walid Georgey, the French rapper of Moroccan descent known artistically as “Maes,” in Casablanca. This arrest follows an international warrant issued by French authorities. The rapper had been wanted for a ten-month prison sentence related to a 2018 case of group violence, bringing months of anticipation among his fans to an end.

According to sources, Maes’s arrest was part of close cooperation between Moroccan security forces and Interpol. Residing in Dubai since 2022, Maes had recently traveled to Morocco, where he was detained. Authorities confirmed that he was convicted in absentia and fined 10,000 euros.

The case dates back to October 2023, when Maes was summoned to appear before French courts. However, his absence led to a warrant being issued in June 2024. His lawyer, Diane du Condé, argued that travel restrictions imposed by the UAE prevented his attendance, but this did not halt the legal proceedings, culminating in his arrest in Casablanca.

Previously, Maes served a one-year prison sentence in 2015 for drug trafficking, which cast a shadow over his career. Despite this, he achieved significant success in the rap world, becoming one of France’s leading musical figures and breaking records on digital platforms.