chargement...
The final autopsy of Abderrahim Akkouh, a young Moroccan man who died last year in Torrejón de Ardoz near Madrid, has confirmed that his death was the result of a violent homicide by suffocation. The incident occurred when local police officers attempted to restrain him using a chokehold known as the «mataleón», following suspicions of attempted theft.
The report, compiled by three forensic experts from Madrid’s Institute of Forensic Medicine, states that Akkouh died in the early hours of June 18, 2025, due to severe oxygen deprivation. The primary cause of death was identified as chest compression and neck pressure while he was pinned face down.
The findings, also reported by Spanish media, indicate that Akkhou suffered multiple rib fractures, abrasions to his arms, and facial injuries. The report also pointed to underlying health conditions, including prior drug use and heart disease linked to coronary artery sclerosis, which may have worsened his condition.
The conclusions were based on a detailed examination of the body, as well as video footage recorded by local residents during the incident. The videos reportedly captured bystanders warning officers about Akkouh’s deteriorating condition as he was being restrained.
According to the investigation, the off-duty officers restrained Akkouh on the ground after suspecting him of theft, following a dinner with colleagues. A local police officer seen in the footage applying the chokehold is currently under investigation.
Meanwhile, the victim’s family is calling for the prosecution of a second officer involved in the incident, who allegedly held Akkouh’s legs. Their lawyer, Rubén Vaquero, is preparing to request that the investigating judge charge the officer, who is currently being heard as a witness. Vaquero argues that he should be considered either an accomplice or a key participant in the incident, even if he did not apply the chokehold himself.
