French Moroccan rapper Maes was arrested in Casablanca on Saturday, following an international warrant from French authorities in 2023, French media reported.
Maes, whose real name is Walid Georgey, has been living in Dubai since late 2022. Law enforcement sources believe his sudden departure for Morocco coincided with French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin’s arrival in Dubai on January 20 to discuss enhanced judicial cooperation with the UAE.
The rapper is facing multiple charges in France, including involvement in organized crime and violence. He was convicted in absentia in June 2024 for assault and sentenced to 10 months in prison.
Maes has long been associated with the criminal underworld in France. He has previously served time for drug trafficking and has been linked to numerous violent incidents.
While the exact reasons for Maes’ arrest in Morocco are still unclear, local authorities are reportedly investigating allegations of kidnapping and false imprisonment against him.