Court Punishes Driver in Jet Ski Incident Causing Severe Injury to 4-Year-Old

Today, the Berrechid Criminal court handed down a 10-month prison sentence to the young man involved in the tragic incident that caused severe injuries to 4-year-old Ghita at Sidi Rahal beach. Additionally, he has been directed to pay MAD 400,000 ($40,000) in compensation to the victim. The incident occurred on June 15, when Ghita was struck by a speeding 4×4 vehicle towing a jet ski while playing. Responding to the accident, a social media campaign was launched using the hashtag #JusticePourRita (#Justice_for_Ghita), calling for accountability and a prompt investigation. The defendant was acquitted of tampering with evidence charges but found guilty of driving his vehicle onto the sand dunes. Both parties have ten days to appeal the court's ruling, excluding the insurance company from the case. A medical report by Dr. Nour Eddine Hilal outlined Ghita's injuries, including a skull fracture resulting in temporary complete disability for 120 days and 80% permanent partial disability. Ghita now requires ongoing medical, psychological, and rehabilitative care due to her condition. The defendant's lawyer argued that the incident was an unforeseeable accident and emphasized the defendant's efforts in assisting Ghita after the accident. The defense also placed blame on local authorities for failing to adequately mark the beach area to prevent such incidents.