Moroccan singer Dounia Batma left Oudaya Prison in Marrakech early Friday morning, after completing a one-year prison sentence for her involvement in the computer fraud “Hamza mon bébé” scandal. Upon her release Batma was discreetly escorted out in a prison administration vehicle at 6 a.m. to avoid media attention.
Batma was convicted for her role in the high-profile case, which involved fraudulent access to computer systems, spreading private content without consent, and publishing false information to defame and threaten others.
The scandal, centered around a fake social media account, exposed private photos and information of Moroccan celebrities and public figures, sparking nationwide debates on cybercrime and privacy.
Initially sentenced to eight months in 2020, Batma’s term was extended to one year on appeal in 2021. In December 2023, the Court upheld the verdict, also imposing a MAD 10,000 fine and ordering her to pay damages to one of the victims, singer Saïda Charaf.
Throughout her incarceration, rumors of a royal pardon circulated, especially during national and religious holidays. However, judicial sources confirmed ultimately she served her full sentence.
The “Hamza mon bébé” account, active from 2016 to 2019, amassed millions of followers by blackmailing celebrities with compromising material. Other individuals, including Batma’s sister Ibtissam Batma and journalist Simo Dahir, were also convicted and were subjected to serve sentences.
Batma’s release marks the end of a legal saga that highlights the risks of cyber exploitation and the importance of protecting privacy in the digital age.
Her case remains a cautionary tale in Morocco’s ongoing efforts to combat online harassment and defamation.