Morocco arrests dissident journalist Ali Lmrabet


RABAT, July ⁠13 (Reuters) - Moroccan police arrested dissident commentator ⁠Ali Lmrabet for questioning upon ‌his arrival at Tangier airport on Sunday, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said on Monday.

Lmrabet is under ​investigation for "alleged dissemination of ⁠false information harming ⁠constitutional institutions", according to the organisation that ⁠provides ‌assistance to journalists at risk.

Moroccan judicial authorities did ⁠not immediately respond to a Reuters request ​for ‌comment.

Lmrabet, who also holds French nationality ⁠and ​lives in Spain, has used social media as a political commentator and ⁠has been an outspoken critic ​of Morocco's political system.

An informed source said Lmrabet is facing a preliminary investigation ⁠over complaints filed by individuals and institutions in Morocco alleging slander and defamation.

In 2003, Lmrabet was jailed ​after being convicted on ⁠charges that included offending the king. ​In 2005, a Moroccan ‌court banned him from ​practicing journalism in Morocco for 10 years.

(Reporting by Ahmed Eljechtimi)

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