The "TikTok" gang case has faded from the main headlines in the country after initially dominating media and social media discussions, largely due to the scandal's impact on public opinion, especially since the victims are minors. However, this case has not vanished from the judiciary, which continues to carry out necessary proceedings to impose the harshest penalties on those involved. So where does the case stand now? What are the latest developments in the investigations?
A judicial source reported that the chief investigating judge in Mount Lebanon, Judge Nicolas Mansour, issued a decision rejecting the preliminary defenses of five detainees, who waived their right to appeal. The source informed MTV that "Judge Mansour interrogated the implicated TikToker, Gigi Ghannou, and two minors, 'Mohammed Siraj A.' (of Turkish nationality) and 'Mohammed H.' (of Syrian nationality). The interrogation session lasted four hours before Mansour had to suspend it due to the extreme heat caused by a power outage, with plans to resume next week, during which four other implicated individuals will be interrogated."
The source revealed that "each interrogation session lasts about two or three hours, and the detainees deny the accusations against them, refusing to directly acknowledge their actions. However, inconsistencies among their statements become evident through the interrogation, leading to the conclusion that 'the case will not conclude soon.'"
Regarding the interrogation of TikToker Gigi Ghannou, the source noted that she "attempted to deny all accusations, arguing that she 'turned herself in,' but Judge Mansour confronted her with videos and photos, and her friend contradicted her statements, which builds the conviction that she is 'guilty' and trying to lie."
The source pointed out that "new complaints have emerged in the case, and there are currently 14 detainees, while a large number of those involved are still at large, with arrest warrants issued against them."
Additionally, a new file related to the young man who committed suicide, allegedly due to the gang's actions, has been presented to Judge Mansour. According to the source, those involved in this case may face charges of "causing death," in addition to money laundering, rape of a minor, and drug trafficking.
In conclusion, the source affirmed that "Judge Mansour will be strict in his indictments and will not be lenient on any matter, especially concerning children."
