Moroccan hotel worker held over alleged theft from Super Falcons players at WAFCON 2026

Moroccan police have arrested a hotel employee in Casablanca on suspicion of stealing money from the rooms of Nigeria’s Super Falcons players as they prepare to defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

The suspect, a staff member at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca where the Nigerian squad is staying, was detained by officers from the judicial police unit in the Anfa security district after multiple complaints of missing cash from players’ rooms, according to Morocco World News.

Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo said on social media that $700 had disappeared from her wallet, prompting wider checks among the squad. Other players were then reported to have noticed that money was also missing from their own rooms.

Nigeria team officials confirmed that the matter was promptly reported to the Moroccan authorities and that a formal investigation was opened.

Police recover suspected stolen funds

In a statement cited in local reports, police said investigators conducted “extensive field inquiries” which led them to identify a hotel employee as the prime suspect.

Searches carried out during the investigation led to the seizure of 10,000 Moroccan dirhams (MAD), which officers believe to be the total amount obtained from the alleged thefts.

According to the police, the suspect is accused of converting the stolen sums from US dollars into Moroccan dirhams after the money was taken from the players’ rooms.

The employee has been placed in custody while a judicial investigation, overseen by the competent public prosecutor’s office, continues. Authorities say the inquiry aims to clarify the circumstances of the alleged thefts and to determine the full extent of any criminal acts that may be attributed to the suspect.

No injuries were reported and there is no suggestion at this stage of any other individuals being involved.

Nigeria focus on title defence

Off the field disruption comes as the Super Falcons prepare to begin the defence of their WAFCON crown in Morocco.

Nigeria, coached by Justin Madugu, start their Group C campaign on Tuesday, 28 July, against Malawi. Zambia and Egypt complete the group.

The Super Falcons are targeting a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title, having long dominated the continental competition.

Madugu’s side are also aiming to secure one of the four automatic qualification places on offer for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, which will go to the four semi-finalists at WAFCON 2026.

Despite the theft investigation, there has been no indication from team officials that the incident will affect Nigeria’s preparations, with the focus remaining on retaining their African title and booking a return to the global stage.