By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Jeffrey Epstein attempted to buy an $18 million palace in Marrakech, Morocco, on July 5, 2019, by signing a $14.95 million wire transfer one day before his arrest in New York, a move that has sparked speculation he sought a potential refuge from US authorities.
Documents released by the US Department of Justice show that the transaction was Epstein’s last major financial move before authorities arrested him on sex trafficking charges upon his return to New York.
Epstein’s Longstanding Ties to Morocco
Epstein’s connections to Morocco date back to the early 2000s. In 2002, he attended the wedding of King Mohammed VI alongside Ghislaine Maxwell after receiving an invitation linked to former US President Bill Clinton.
Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most prominent accusers, later wrote in her memoir that Epstein flew her to Tangier. She said they inspected luxury properties for interior design ideas. At the time, Epstein wanted to redesign parts of his private island in Moroccan style.
However, released files contain no reference to Epstein discussing Morocco as a safe haven from US authorities.
Details of the Wire Transfer
Epstein signed the $14.95 million wire transfer after agreeing to purchase an offshore company that owned the property for €18 million. The palace, known as Bin Ennakhil, sits in the upscale Palmeraie district of Marrakech.
Three days after his arrest, Epstein’s accountant, Richard Kahn, cancelled the transfer. Consequently, the acquisition never went through.
The Palace in Palmeraie
The grand estate in Palmeraie stands out as an architectural masterpiece. Builders employed about 1,300 craftsmen to complete the project. The palace features ornate carvings and intricate mosaics.
Epstein had pursued the property since 2011. Nevertheless, disputes over pricing and purchase terms delayed the agreement for years.
Speculation Over His Motive
Morocco does not have an extradition treaty with the United States. Therefore, local media speculated that Epstein may have considered the country a potential sanctuary.
A former associate, who declined to be named, rejected claims that Epstein anticipated his arrest. According to the associate, the transaction suggested Epstein “had no clue” about his imminent detention.
However, the associate added that Morocco could have offered a place where Epstein might still “live like a king” if legal troubles escalated.
