Epstein’s Last Attempt to Secure £13M Moroccan Palace Before Arrest

Newly released documents from the United States have revealed that Jeffrey Epstein attempted to purchase a £13 million ($14.95 million) palace in Morocco just days before his arrest on sex trafficking charges in 2019. This revelation raises questions about Epstein’s intentions and whether he sought a luxurious retreat beyond American jurisdiction.

On July 5, 2019, the day before his arrest at a New York airport, Epstein transferred £11 million to secure the property known as Bin Ennakhil, located in the upscale Palmeraie neighbourhood of Marrakech. The estate, described as an “architectural masterpiece,” took three years to construct with the help of 1,300 artisans. It features intricate carvings, mosaics, 15 bedrooms—including seven for staff—three swimming pools, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Epstein’s interest in the palace dates back to 2011, but negotiations stalled over its original asking price of €55 million. Ultimately, he agreed to a reduced price of €18 million (£13.3 million) for the offshore company that owned the estate, marking what would become his final significant transaction before his arrest. Just three days later, accountant Richard Kahn cancelled the transfer, and the deal fell apart.

Morocco’s lack of an extradition treaty with the United States led local media to speculate that Epstein viewed the country as a potential escape route amid mounting allegations against him. An anonymous former associate stated that Epstein “had no clue” about the impending charges but acknowledged that it made sense for him to consider a sanctuary where he could “live like a king.”

The documents, unsealed by the U.S. Department of Justice last month, do not explicitly mention any plans for refuge. However, Epstein’s connections to Morocco date back to the early 2000s. Accuser Virginia Giuffre recalled being flown to Tangier by Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell to explore luxury designs for his island home. In 2002, he attended the wedding of King Mohammed VI alongside Maxwell, having been invited by Bill Clinton.

Following his 2008 conviction for soliciting underage sex, Epstein’s interest in Morocco intensified. Documents indicate that in 2010, he asked former Labour minister Peter Mandelson to help him find an assistant for a house-hunting trip to Marrakech. From 2012 onwards, he began frequenting the Palmeraie and mingling with elites, including Qatari royal Jabor al Thani, whom he referred to as his “Arab brother.”

Reports from the BBC indicate that Epstein’s girlfriend, Karyna Shuliak, led the negotiations for the palace, making multiple visits to the property. Focused on acquiring Bin Ennakhil—translated as “between the palm trees”—which belonged to German tycoon Gunter Kiss, Shuliak initially submitted low offers that offended Kiss, halting direct communication. She later attempted to bid on behalf of billionaire Leon Black to conceal Epstein’s involvement, but the transparency of the negotiations became apparent, prompting talks to resume.

A proposed “sale and tax strategy” suggested registering the sale at €10 million while actually transacting €20 million offshore to reduce Moroccan taxes. Marc Leon, of Kensington Luxury Properties, denied any wrongdoing, asserting that Epstein opted to pay fees for personal ownership. The arrangement ultimately fell apart following Epstein’s arrest. He died in custody weeks later, with his death ruled a suicide.

The circumstances surrounding Epstein’s final attempt at acquiring the Moroccan estate highlight the complexities of his financial dealings and personal aspirations in the face of escalating legal troubles. The implications of these revelations continue to unfold as authorities investigate the full extent of his actions.