Fez — Moroccan authorities have opened a judicial investigation into the illegal sale of tickets for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, following reports of fraud and unauthorized resale activity linked to the tournament.
Judicial police units are conducting the probe across Morocco under the supervision of the public prosecutor’s office, according to converging reports. The investigation focuses on advertisements and transactions involving AFCON tickets that were allegedly sold outside official channels, primarily through social media platforms.
Initial findings have already led to the arrest of eight individuals suspected of participating in the illegal resale network. Authorities said the suspects were detained after investigators monitored online listings offering match tickets at inflated prices, in violation of existing laws governing ticket distribution and commercial fraud.
Arrests across multiple Moroccan cities
Judicial police units carried out security operations in several cities as part of this investigation, including Rabat, Temara, Agadir, Salé, Marrakech, and Mohammedia. Officials said the geographic spread of the arrests indicates a coordinated network rather than isolated incidents.
Investigators are continuing to question those detained while working to identify additional suspects who may have been involved in facilitating or promoting the illegal sales. Authorities emphasized that the inquiry remains ongoing and could result in further arrests in the coming days.
Crackdown ahead of a major continental event
The investigation comes as Morocco prepares to host AFCON 2025, one of the continent’s largest sporting events, expected to draw thousands of international visitors and millions of viewers worldwide. With demand for tickets expected to be high, Moroccan authorities have repeatedly warned against unofficial sales channels and urged fans to rely only on authorized platforms.
Officials view the crackdown as part of broader efforts to protect consumers, ensure fair access to tickets, and safeguard the tournament’s organization and reputation. Illegal ticket resale not only exposes fans to financial loss, authorities say, but can also disrupt security planning and crowd management during high-profile matches.
Social media under scrutiny
Law enforcement sources said a significant portion of the illegal activity was traced back to social media posts advertising tickets before official sales periods or offering guaranteed access without proof of authorization. Investigators are now examining digital evidence, including online communications and payment records, to establish the full scope of the operation.
Authorities reiterated that advertising or selling tickets without official approval constitutes a criminal offense under Moroccan law, particularly when linked to fraud or deception.
A warning to fans and resellers
As AFCON 2025 approaches, officials have renewed their call for vigilance, urging supporters to avoid engaging with unofficial sellers, regardless of promised access or discounted prices. They also warned that individuals involved in illegal ticket sales could face prosecution and legal penalties.
The case highlights Morocco’s determination to enforce strict oversight around AFCON 2025 logistics, reflecting the broader stakes of hosting a tournament local authorities now see as both a sporting showcase and a test of organizational credibility.
With investigations still underway, authorities say further updates will be provided as new information emerges, underscoring that preparations for AFCON 2025 extend beyond stadiums and infrastructure to include consumer protection and legal enforcement.
