American-Moroccan rapper French Montana is facing a legal storm after two Swiss men, Justo Obiang and Samir Gato, filed a lawsuit accusing him of stealing a luxury watch valued at over $1 million. The civil suit, filed on Thursday, alleges that Montana engaged in a fraudulent exchange that left the duo without their prized possession.
According to the court filings, the dispute traces back to a 2015 meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, following one of French Montana’s concerts. The men claim they maintained a friendly relationship with the rapper over the years, which led to renewed contact in 2024 when they arranged to meet him in Egypt.
Before the meeting, the plaintiffs allege that French Montana expressed interest in trading watches with Obiang — an offer that was declined. They say the rapper later requested to borrow the watch for 30 days to wear during Paris Fashion Week, promising to return it after the event. To secure their trust, he allegedly offered another luxury timepiece as collateral, claiming it was worth more than the one he borrowed.
Plaintiffs Claim Watch Never Returned — and Collateral Was Fake
The Swiss men allege that the deal turned sour when French Montana failed to return the watch after multiple requests. They further claim that the watch provided by the rapper as collateral turned out to be counterfeit, leaving them defrauded and without their valuable item.
Court documents suggest that the watch originally loaned to French Montana has since appreciated in value, now worth more than $1 million. Consequently, the plaintiffs are suing for fraudulent misrepresentation, conversion, unjust enrichment, and related charges. They are seeking at least $1 million in damages, asserting that Montana deliberately deceived them for personal gain.
The plaintiffs also emphasized their repeated but unsuccessful efforts to contact Montana after the loan period expired. They allege that despite several attempts to resolve the matter privately, the rapper avoided communication, forcing them to pursue legal recourse.
French Montana Responds — Denies Claims, Plans Countersuit
French Montana’s attorney, Steve Haddad, has publicly rejected the allegations, calling them “entirely false and misleading.” Haddad stated that Montana intends to countersue the plaintiffs for defamation and reputational harm.
According to the rapper’s version of events, he traveled to Egypt at Obiang’s invitation, where he participated in several media appearances and social media campaigns organized by the plaintiffs. Montana’s camp claims the disputed watch was offered to him as payment for his promotional activities, not borrowed or stolen.
The rapper, whose real name is Karim Kharbouch, maintains that he acted in good faith throughout the interaction. His legal team argues that the Swiss businessmen are attempting to exploit his celebrity status for financial gain. The lawsuit, now drawing international attention, underscores the complex intersections of luxury, celebrity, and trust in high-profile entertainment circles.
As the case proceeds, French Montana continues to promote new music and brand projects, while maintaining that the allegations are an attempt to tarnish his image. Legal experts say the suit could hinge on documentation and communication records proving ownership and intent at the time of the exchange.
