In the 1990s, Malian families were relocated to one of the many Parisian hostels managed by the National Housing Construction Company for Algerian Workers (Sonacotra). A former employee is accused of raping children there, and Hawa speaks publicly for the first time. “I speak so that others can speak in turn”, explains to Agence France-Presse (AFP) the 39-year-old woman, on condition of anonymity, in her lawyer’s office. Until now, she had reserved her testimony for justice.
In 2022, the minor protection brigade contacted her, telling her they were investigating a certain Marcel H., an employee of Sonacotra (now Adoma) until 2006. A first woman, whom AFP was unable to contact , filed a complaint in 2021 for rape and spoke to the police about other victims, including Hawa.
Sonacotra was created in 1956 by the public authorities to eliminate slums and accommodate workers, particularly Algerians. The structure then developed by creating homes throughout France.
“Predator in Suit”
Marcel H., now in his seventies, was indicted in Paris in July 2022 for rape and attempted rape of minors aged 15, between 1992 and 1996, AFP learned on Friday from sources close to the case. Four victims were identified, three of whom became civil parties.
In the 1990s, Marcel H. “recovered the amount of rent from families relocated to a building in 19e district of Paris doomed to demolition », according to a police source. According to Hawa, the man had made himself indispensable in a context of great insecurity: help with homework, trips to the cinema, gifts, etc.
For Hawa’s lawyer, Seydi Ba, this file reveals “power games”. The accused, “predator in costume”, “targeted these children because they had a double vulnerability due to their age but also their origin. Their immigrant parents did not speak French. »
“Today the world has changed”
Except today “the world has changed”underlines Hawa. “Victims are given more consideration, children are more protected, now is the time to speak out and not let this gentleman continue to act. »
Adoma responded to AFP “do not comment on an ongoing investigation”but be “deeply shocked” of the acts alleged against Marcel H., which she “discovered at the time of the opening of the investigation”. The company assured that it had “provided all the necessary support” to the police. For his part, Marcel H., under judicial supervision, “fiercely contests” these accusations, assured his lawyer, Jérôme Goudard.
According to his interrogations in July 2022, of which AFP was aware, Marcel H. affirmed that “African women made propositions to him” sexual, but that he had “never gave in”. The septuagenarian estimated that the civil parties had “put together a file” against him, arguing that “these families were trying to take advantage of everything”.
The man also said he did not consume pornography. However, investigators recently discovered in his phone “3,800 pornographic photos” and pictures “of a naked child” on USB keys.
The investigations continue, and Hawa wishes to be confronted with the person she accuses.