SAA event in Morocco on Sun 23rd November 2025

A young boy discovered a loaded Kalashnikov rifle last Thursday while playing in Al-Mazhar forest, located between the communes of Lqliaa and Al-Mazhar in the Ait Melloul area. The incident triggered a significant security response from local authorities.

According to multiple local sources, the child noticed a partially buried object in the soil while exploring the forest. Acting on curiosity, he dug it out and carried it home. His father was immediately shocked upon realizing that the object was a real firearm, loaded with live ammunition, highlighting the potential danger of the discovery.

Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the father promptly informed local authorities. The Royal Gendarmerie of Lqliaa, accompanied by representatives from local administrative bodies, quickly arrived at the scene to assess and secure the area. An urgent investigation was immediately initiated under the supervision of the public prosecutor.

The security teams cordoned off the forest area where the weapon was found and began a meticulous on-site investigation. This included official interviews with the child, his father, and several witnesses to gather firsthand accounts of the discovery. 

The rifle was seized and sent for technical and scientific examination to determine its functionality and to trace its origin.

Officials noted that the forest’s proximity to major roads and coastal routes raised concerns, as the area is sometimes used by networks involved in human trafficking and drug smuggling.

Security services are continuing coordinated field and intelligence operations to uncover how the loaded rifle ended up in the forest.