Silenced Beats: The Detention of Mehdi Black Wind
El Mahdi Lyoubi, known as Mehdi Black Wind, is in pre-trial detention in Casablanca. A vocal critic of Morocco’s political system, he was detained after being stopped from boarding a flight to France. Over 500 artists have signed a petition for his release, citing concerns over freedom of expression
Devdiscourse News Desk|Updated: 16-07-2026 05:03 IST | Created: 16-07-2026 05:03 IST
- Country:
- Morocco
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El Mahdi Lyoubi, a rapper and documentary filmmaker who has been openly critical of Morocco’s political system, has been placed in pre-trial detention in Casablanca. The decision was confirmed by a rights group and a judicial source
Lyoubi, known professionally as Mehdi Black Wind, was detained after being stopped from boarding a flight to Marseille on Monday. No charges have been disclosed by the prosecutor’s office regarding his detention
The Moroccan Association for Human Rights has demanded Lyoubi’s immediate release, arguing that his case raises significant concerns about freedom of expression. Meanwhile, more than 500 artists, musicians, and film professionals have signed a petition through the French media outlet Mediapart, advocating for his freedom
