Following the widespread controversy surrounding the fabrication of a theft incident broadcasted during a live radio show in Morocco, the Moroccan judiciary issued a sentence of 4 months of imprisonment against program host Mohamed Bousfiha, known as "Momo." Additionally, the Court of First Instance in Casablanca sentenced other defendants in the case to 5 months and 3 months of imprisonment for charges of "inventing a fictitious crime and insulting an organized body." The presenter was charged with "participating in the insult and broadcasting information he knew was false."
**Incident Details**
The incident dates back to late March when "Momo" received a phone call from a listener during his show "Momo Ramadan Show." Amid the caller's narrative, a sound of screaming was heard, after which the call was abruptly disconnected; the presenter interpreted this as related to a theft incident happening live on air. A few minutes later, the listener called back after borrowing a friend's phone to recount the details, subtly indicating a lack of response from the security services regarding the theft complaint.
As news spread and a video clip from the radio station circulated on social media, Moroccan authorities launched an investigation that led to the arrest of those involved in the fictitious crime and the dissemination of false news that undermined citizens' sense of security. Mohamed Bousfiha is considered one of the most famous entertainment radio presenters in Morocco, with his morning show "Momo Morning Show" enjoying wide viewership and popularity.
