Investigation Intensifies in Disappearance of French National Clément Besneville in Morocco

French-Spanish national Clément Besneville's disappearance in Morocco sparks anti-terrorism probe and cross-government appeals.

    Key details

  • • Clément Besneville disappeared in Morocco in April 2024 with all personal belongings left behind in his apartment.
  • • French anti-terrorist prosecutor's office opened an investigation in July 2024 after Moroccan authorities transferred the case.
  • • Family filed a legal complaint for abduction and detention in March 2025 and urged intensified search efforts.
  • • French authorities requested international legal assistance to access Moroccan case files.

Clément Besneville, a 29-year-old French-Spanish national, disappeared in Morocco in April 2024 under mysterious circumstances. Having relocated to Rabat earlier that year to open a pizzeria, Besneville ceased communication shortly before a scheduled lease signing on April 15. His parents officially reported him missing on April 25, 2024, after all his personal belongings—including identification, phone, computer, cash, and glasses—were found abandoned in his apartment near the sea.

The French anti-terrorist prosecutor's office (Pnat) launched an investigation on July 28, 2024, after the case was transferred from Moroccan authorities. According to Didier Besneville, Clément's disappearance likely occurred on the night of April 10, 2024, around 10:30 PM. In March 2025, the family filed a legal complaint for abduction and detention, urging greater investigative efforts.

The Pnat has sought international legal assistance to obtain case files from Morocco, signaling an intensification in cross-border cooperation. Didier Besneville has appealed directly to French President Emmanuel Macron and Moroccan King Mohammed VI, pressing both governments to prioritize the search. He emphasized the urgency of the case and insisted it must not be forgotten.

This ongoing investigation highlights the complexities involved in resolving cross-national disappearances and the challenges families face in securing answers. The involvement of the anti-terrorist prosecutor's office underscores the seriousness with which French authorities are treating the case. Clément Besneville's family continues to advocate for heightened action, determined to uncover the truth behind his unexplained disappearance in Morocco.

This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.

The top news stories in France

Delivered straight to your inbox each morning.