Imam of Bagnols-sur-Cèze: a preliminary investigation for “apology of terrorism” opened against Mahjoub Mahjoubi

The imam is the subject of a preliminary investigation. Midi Libre – THIERRY MBOM

This Monday, February 19, 2024, a preliminary investigation was opened for advocating terrorism against the imam of Bagnols-sur-Cèze. The day before, Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin had requested the withdrawal of the Tunisian's residence permit.

A preliminary investigation has been opened for advocating terrorism. The imam concerned, a Tunisian who works in Bagnols-sur-Cèze, is targeted for his “anti-France” remarks, reports BFMTV. Already this weekend, Gérald Darmanin had requested the withdrawal of his residence permit.

Apologia for terrorism

The words of the imam who lives in Gard had been widely relayed on social networks. In videos, Mahjoub Mahjoubi notably described the French flag as "satanic flag" which does not  #39;a "no value with Allah".

The investigation will determine whether or not the Tunisian's comments advocate terrorism. As a reminder, article 421-2-5 of the Penal Code states:  "The act of directly inciting acts of terrorism or publicly committing acts of terrorism; #39;apology for these acts is punishable by five years of imprisonment and a fine of 75,000 euros. A sentence which can go up to 100,000 euros d& #39;fine and 7 years of imprisonment when the acts are "committed using an online public communication service" .

The imam had been the subject of a first report well before this affair, for financial offenses linked to the management of the mosque. 

Residence permit

His remarks were the subject of reports by the prefect of Gard to the public prosecutor. Yesterday, Gérald Darmanin requested that his residence permit be withdrawn. 

Earlier today on BFMTV, Nicolas Meizonnet, the RN deputy for Gard, wondered about the presence of this imam on French soil. "We can clearly see that the laxity in matters of migration policy allows him to preach hatred on the territory with complete impunity&quot ;, declared the'elected official.