Legal Battle Intensifies as Magali Berdah Seizes Over €40 Million in Assets from Rapper Booba
Paris, France – A significant legal development unfolded on Thursday, February 19, 2026, as businesswoman Magali Berdah secured a conservatory seizure of approximately €40.6 million in assets belonging to French rapper Booba. The seizure, ordered by the Tribunal Judiciaire of Paris, targets the artist’s copyright royalties and other financial holdings, marking a dramatic escalation in a protracted dispute stemming from allegations of online harassment. This action comes amid an ongoing investigation into Booba for alleged moral harassment, a case that has captivated public attention in France.
The move by Berdah, who now works as a radio host on Sud Radio, centers around claims that Booba engaged in a deliberate campaign to harm her company, Shauna Events, which specializes in influencer marketing. She alleges that the rapper actively cyberbullied and threatened brands collaborating with Shauna Events, pressuring them to terminate their partnerships. The conservatory seizure is intended to secure potential damages awarded to Berdah and her associated companies – Shauna Events, Sublime Talent, and MB Conseil – should they prevail in the legal proceedings. The total amount provisionally assessed by the court is €40,588,572.
Background: The Harassment Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Booba, whose real name has not been officially released by authorities, is currently under investigation for moral harassment, a charge leveled against him in October 2023. The investigation centers on accusations that he orchestrated a sustained online attack against Berdah and her business interests. According to reports, the alleged harassment involved a barrage of negative posts and messages directed at brands working with Shauna Events, aiming to damage their reputation and financial stability.
The conservatory seizure is a legal mechanism designed to freeze assets before a final judgment is reached, ensuring that funds are available to satisfy a potential future award. The court’s decision allows for the seizure of royalties held by Booba through various entities, including the Sacem (French society for the collection of performing rights), Universal Music France, and Deezer, a popular music streaming service. The seizure extends to holdings with the SDRM (Société pour l’administration du droit de reproduction mécanique des auteurs, compositeurs et éditeurs), Because Music, and various streaming platforms operating through their French intermediaries or labels. The order also encompasses Booba’s bank accounts, vehicles, and other movable property.
Details of the Asset Seizure and Legal Strategy
The seizure isn’t limited to intellectual property rights and financial accounts. Authorities are also targeting Booba’s personal assets, including vehicles and other movable property. The rapper, who currently resides in Miami, Florida, has not yet publicly commented on the seizure. His legal team, according to reports, was reportedly unaware of the action until it was publicly announced.
The legal basis for the seizure rests on the court’s provisional assessment of the damages claimed by Berdah and her companies. The €40.588.572 figure represents the estimated financial losses allegedly incurred as a result of Booba’s actions. The court’s decision to grant the conservatory seizure indicates a preliminary belief that there is a reasonable likelihood of success for the plaintiffs in the case. This is a crucial step in securing potential compensation for the alleged harm suffered by Shauna Events and its affiliates.
Booba’s Career and Previous Controversies
Booba, born in 1977, is a highly influential figure in French rap music, known for his distinctive style and often controversial lyrics. He has released numerous successful albums and is considered one of the pioneers of the French hip-hop scene. However, his career has been punctuated by legal disputes and public controversies.
Prior to the current harassment allegations, Booba has faced scrutiny over his lyrics and public statements, which have occasionally sparked debate about freedom of speech and the boundaries of artistic expression. He has also been involved in disputes with other artists and industry figures. This latest legal battle adds another layer to his complex and often turbulent public persona.
Implications for Influencer Marketing and Online Harassment
This case has broader implications for the influencer marketing industry and the growing problem of online harassment. The allegations against Booba highlight the potential for significant financial damage to businesses and individuals targeted by online attacks. It also raises questions about the responsibility of social media platforms and the effectiveness of current legal frameworks in addressing online abuse.
Magali Berdah’s aggressive legal strategy is being viewed by some as a landmark case that could set a precedent for holding individuals accountable for online harassment. If she succeeds in proving her claims, it could embolden other victims of cyberbullying to pursue legal action and seek redress for their damages. The outcome of this case is likely to be closely watched by legal experts and industry professionals alike.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
The conservatory seizure is just one step in the ongoing legal process. Booba will have the opportunity to challenge the seizure in court and present his defense against the harassment allegations. A full trial is expected to take place in the coming months, where evidence will be presented and witnesses will be examined. The court will ultimately determine whether Booba is liable for the damages claimed by Berdah and her companies.
The next confirmed development in the case is a hearing scheduled for March 15, 2026, where Booba’s legal team will formally respond to the seizure order. The hearing will be held at the Tribunal Judiciaire of Paris and is expected to draw significant media attention. Further updates will be provided as the case progresses.
This is a developing story, and World Today Journal will continue to provide updates as they become available. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on this important case in the comments section below.
