The phenomenon of clandestine transport is spreading in Essaouira. The number of cars in operation is increasing visibly, particularly in El Hanchane in the Chiadma region.

The number of C15 cars operating illegally has exceeded 30, not to mention the transit cars that roam the region's roads in complete freedom.

Yet, "Libé" has not ceased to sound the alarm, drawing attention to the social, economic, and security repercussions of this phenomenon. Especially since it benefits from the silence of the gendarmerie services, who are content to observe the shocking trips of cars packed to the brim and driving at breakneck speed.

It is truly paradoxical: the gendarmerie brigades do not hesitate to sanction speeding or illegal overtaking, while they tolerate public transport without authorisation, exceeding the number of authorised passengers, and many other infractions as serious as each other. The misfortune is that hundreds of citizens witness daily this inadmissible cohabitation between the representatives of the law on one hand, and the clandestine transporters on the other.

The professionals are powerless, fearing the reaction of the gendarmerie services. They do not dare to express their dissatisfaction with this phenomenon that threatens the future of their profession.

"We regularly pay significant amounts to be able to benefit from the advantages provided by the licence, as well as insurance costs, the vignette, car maintenance, and sometimes even the drivers' salaries. How are we going to assume these charges in the face of such a situation? How do the authorities dare to tolerate such practices that threaten the social and economic stability of several dozen families? Is this a signal to push us towards the informal sector to be able to survive?" wonders a professional, not without bitterness.

The most scandalous aspect, unfortunately shared by professionals and clandestine transporters, is that of exceeding the number of authorised passengers. It reaches eleven and even thirteen passengers sometimes: three near the driver, five on the back seat, and three more in the boot.

Some defend the phenomenon by relying on the social, economic, and geographical specificities of the region. An argument to be rejected, because the situation calls upon the various stakeholders to recommend viable and legal alternatives instead of being content to cohabit with the illegality that has cost and will cost the lives of several citizens.