Manipulation of bare land properties sparks investigation in Morocco

Regional authorities in Morocco are on high alert due to growing concerns over alleged manipulation of "bare land" properties. Investigations have been launched in key regions, including Casablanca-Settat, Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Marrakesh-Safi, and Tangier-Tétouan-Al Hoceima.

Reports suggest that administrative, real estate, and legal documents are being exploited to alter the legal status of these urban undeveloped lands. This alleged manipulation facilitates dubious transfers and divisions of properties, potentially misleading rightful owners and benefiting influential parties. Investigations are focusing on the integrity of documents used to secure possession of these lands, with suspicions of improper use of administrative certificates related to judicial notification and delivery.

The ongoing inquiries are meticulously examining the process of preparing and issuing administrative documents. Authorities are verifying the entities responsible for drafting and approving these documents. A key focus is on ensuring that the information in administrative certificates aligns with the actual field conditions and the available real estate documentation held by the relevant departments. This scrutiny aims to uncover any discrepancies or fraudulent practices.

Furthermore, the investigations are probing potential collusion between real estate intermediaries, developers, and other stakeholders involved in managing real estate files. These actors are suspected of exploiting loopholes in legal procedures and the complexities of judicial disputes to alter property boundaries and reconfigure their legal status. The research also targets attempts to gain control of "bare land" through division and rearrangement processes, particularly in cases involving disputes or expropriation claims for public utility.

Urban undeveloped lands have garnered particular attention due to their high real estate value and the potential profits from their division and sale, especially in rapidly expanding urban areas with high demand for property. Authorities are investigating the roles of intermediaries, experts, and professionals whose names appear in certain files to determine the nature of their involvement and adherence to regulations. The aim is to ascertain whether any proven violations stem from administrative errors or deliberate practices designed to benefit specific individuals.