Epstein Attempted to Purchase Moroccan Palace Just Before 2019 Arrest

Recent documents made public by the US Department of Justice reveal that Jeffrey Epstein attempted to acquire a multimillion-dollar palace in Morocco merely one day before his arrest in July 2019.

These records disclose that Epstein initiated a wire transfer amounting to $14.95 million on July 5, 2019, in connection with a contract to acquire the offshore entity that owned Bin Ennakhil, a lavish estate located in Marrakech’s upscale Palmeraie region. This transaction valued the property at €18 million. Epstein was apprehended the following day upon his return to New York facing charges of sex trafficking.

Just three days after the transaction was initiated, Epstein's long-time accountant, Richard Kahn, called off the wire transfer, resulting in the deal not being completed. The documents indicate that this payment was Epstein's last significant financial maneuver prior to his arrest.

Reports suggest that Epstein had shown interest in the property since 2011. Bin Ennakhil, which translates to "between the palm trees" in Arabic, is presented in marketing materials as an architectural marvel constructed over three years by a team of 1,300 artisans, showcasing detailed carvings and mosaic work.

Negotiations with the seller, German businessman Gunter Kiss, were drawn out and occasionally contentious. Initial offers from Epstein were reportedly viewed as too low. Over time, his associate, Karyna Shuliak, managed inspections and negotiations, even at one point representing herself as acting on behalf of billionaire investor Leon Black. Eventually, it became evident that Epstein himself was the actual buyer, leading to renewed discussions.

The documents further outline a proposed “sale and tax strategy” that involved registering the property at a lower declared value while transferring shares of the offshore company at a higher price. Kensington Luxury Properties, which assisted in the transaction's proceedings, denied any unethical practices, asserting that the arrangement complied with Moroccan tax laws.

“This transaction adhered to all tax regulations,” stated Mr. Leon in a conversation with the BBC. “Mr. Epstein sought to pay the registration costs in Morocco, despite having no legal obligation to do so, to ensure the property was owned in his name.”

Since Morocco lacks an extradition treaty with the United States, there is speculation in local media that Epstein might have viewed the country as a safe haven. However, the documents released do not provide direct evidence indicating any discussions by Epstein regarding Morocco as a sanctuary from American authorities.

A former associate, who chose to remain anonymous, suggested that Epstein’s transaction attempt demonstrated he "had no idea” about his imminent arrest, while also acknowledging that Morocco could have represented a place where he could “live like a king.”

Epstein’s associations with Morocco trace back to the early 2000s. Virginia Giuffre, one of his most notable accusers, mentioned in her memoir that Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell had flown her to Tangier to evaluate Moroccan- style interiors for his private island.

In 2002, Epstein attended the wedding of Morocco's King Mohammed VI with Maxwell, reportedly invited by former US President Bill Clinton. Following a jail sentence in 2008 for soliciting underage sex, his interest in Morocco seemingly intensified, with records indicating he sought help in procuring property in Marrakech as early as 2010.

Although the purchase of the palace ultimately did not materialize, the newly revealed documents provide insight into Epstein’s financial dealings and international connections leading up to his arrest, raising further inquiries regarding his global network and intentions.