Moroccan authorities have launched a wide-ranging investigation into online influencers allegedly promoting illicit gambling websites, highlighting a growing concern over the financial risks posed by unregulated online activity. The crackdown,led by the National Brigade of the Judicial Police (BNPJ),centers on accusations that influencers directed Moroccan citizens to foreign-based operators in violation of the state’s gambling monopoly,held by the Moroccan Games and sports Company (MDJS). Estimates suggest over $300 million USD has been diverted to illegal betting channels, prompting a coordinated effort to prosecute those involved and block access to the offending sites, with potential implications for freedom of expression online .
Moroccan authorities are cracking down on a network of online influencers and content creators accused of promoting illegal gambling websites, a case that underscores the growing challenges of regulating online financial flows.
The investigation, led by the National Brigade of the Judicial Police (BNPJ) and supported by financial regulators, centers on allegations that dozens of individuals directed Moroccan customers to foreign-based gambling operators, violating the state’s monopoly held by the Moroccan Games and Sports Company (MDJS). Officials say the scheme involved hidden advertising links, referral codes, and undisclosed payments.
The Office des Changes, Morocco’s foreign exchange regulator, flagged the issue after identifying a surge in unauthorized transfers to overseas gambling entities. According to findings shared with investigators, the sector was “considered as presenting major risks.”
One case highlighted by authorities involved a gambler who transferred the equivalent of $700,000 USD (7 million Moroccan dirhams) to fund online betting accounts. The individual has been ordered to regularize their financial situation and faces potential fines under the 1949 exchange control law.
Investigators estimate that more than $300 million USD (3 billion dirhams) has been diverted to illegal sports betting channels, resulting in an estimated $20 million USD (200 million dirhams) in lost tax revenue. The case raises concerns about potential money laundering activities facilitated by these online networks.
Authorities are also scrutinizing payments made to influencers for promotional activities. Revenue not properly declared to the Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes will be subject to recovery procedures and penalties.
The BNPJ is currently investigating 36 influencers suspected of promoting links to illegal sports betting sites, following a formal complaint filed by the MDJS. The complaint alleges that foreign operators are knowingly accepting bets from Moroccan residents, in direct violation of Moroccan law.
Prosecutors aim to both prosecute those involved in the illegal advertising and to block access to these websites. They are seeking the cooperation of national telecommunications operators – Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi – to block access to the offending sites.
Investigators are working to determine the nature of the relationships between content creators and gambling operators, seeking to prove complicity in organizing illegal gambling rather than simple advertising arrangements. Evidence suggests that payments to influencers significantly exceed legal limits for commercial transactions, further indicating a deeper connection.
Authorities have indicated that those involved will be summoned for questioning soon. The case is being presented as a priority effort to safeguard the nation’s financial interests and clean up the digital space. The outcome will determine the criminal liability of the influencers accused of exposing their audiences to financial risks in exchange for undisclosed gains.
