Al-Khelaïfi not questioned in kidnapping case

Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, president of Paris Saint-Germain and a minister without portfolio in Qatar, has not been heard by investigators in a case involving alleged kidnapping. The case centers on Tayeb Benabderrahmane, a Franco-Algerian lobbyist who was arrested in January 2020 on suspicion of espionage on behalf of a foreign state.

Allegations of torture and kidnapping

Benabderrahmane claims he was tortured and kidnapped, allegedly because he possessed documents that could be damaging to Al-Khelaïfi. Al-Khelaïfi's entourage has denied these claims, stating they are false and unfounded.

Diplomatic immunity invoked

According to Le Parisien, investigators intended to question Al-Khelaïfi, but he allegedly missed the summons by invoking diplomatic immunity. His lawyer, Me Philippe Bouchez el Ghozi, stated that Al-Khelaïfi intends for diplomatic channels related to his summons to be fully respected.

Separate investigation into PSG

Benabderrahmane is also under investigation in another case known as the "barbouzeries" around PSG, for offenses including influence peddling and corruption. In this case, Al-Khelaïfi is a civil party, placing him on the side of the victims.

Benabderrahmane's release and agreement

After several months of detention in Doha, followed by house arrest, Benabderrahmane left Qatar in November 2020. He claims he was forced to sign an agreement committing him not to disclose the documents, under penalty of having to pay five million euros.