Suspect Arrested for Stolen Super Falcons Players' Cash in Morocco Hotel

A suspect has been arrested in connection with the alleged theft of cash belonging to members of Nigeria’s Super Falcons at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Morocco, following an investigation into the incident that occurred during the team’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

According to reports, the suspect has confessed to the crime and is expected to return the stolen money, while legal proceedings are set to begin.

The theft reportedly took place on the final day of the Super Falcons’ training camp in Casablanca before the team departed for Rabat, where they are scheduled to play their Group C matches.

The latest development comes after several players accused the hotel of failing to properly address complaints that cash had disappeared from their rooms while they were away.

Among those who reported losses were forward Esther Okoronkwo, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielder Halimatu Ayinde, and Joy Omewa.

The players alleged that a combined total of $1,220 was stolen. Okoronkwo reportedly lost $700, while Ajibade lost $200, Ohale and Ayinde each reported losing $100, and Omewa said $120 was taken from her wallet.

Following the incident, Okoronkwo criticized the hotel’s handling of the matter in a social media post, claiming staff failed to provide satisfactory answers and treated the players disrespectfully. She also advised members of the public against staying at the hotel.

Her remarks sparked a wave of online abuse, with several users believed to be from Morocco allegedly posting racist comments on her Instagram page, including offensive comparisons targeting Black people.

However, the investigation has now made significant progress.

Nigerian journalist and former Super Eagles media officer Colin Udoh announced on Sunday that Moroccan authorities had apprehended a suspect who admitted to stealing the players’ money.

“I have been informed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the theft at the Super Falcons’ Marriott Hotel in Casablanca and has confessed. Full restitution will be made to the players while the law takes its course,” Udoh wrote on X.

Meanwhile, the Super Falcons have shifted their attention to the WAFCON tournament after relocating to Rabat.

Head coach Justine Madugu’s squad held two training sessions at the AS FAR training ground on Sunday as preparations intensified for their opening Group C clash against Malawi at Al Madina Stadium.

Nigeria, the most successful team in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with 10 titles, will also face Zambia and Egypt in the group stage as they chase a record-extending 11th continental championship.