Moroccan Authorities Dismantle ISIS-Linked Terror Cell Planning Attacks in Errachidia

In a statement, the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ) reports that the special force elements of the Directorate General of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) carried out simultaneous operations that resulted in the arrest of the main suspect who is the "alleged emir" of this terrorist cell, as well as two other members of the cell operating in the city of Errachidia.

During the searches carried out in the suspects’ homes, as well as in the business premises of one of them, the investigators seized computer equipment, memory cards, mobile phones, paramilitary uniforms, manuscripts glorifying terrorist operations and posters referring to "Khorasan" as a new base for fighting.

According to the BCIJ, the business premises of the "alleged emir", due to its proximity to vital and strategic facilities, has been transformed into a place of prayer, after the prohibition of prayer in mosques. This premises also served as a refuge for the consecration of extremist ideology, as well as a space for the planning of terrorist crimes against individuals. One of the victims of this terrorist recruitment cell had been chosen as an imminent target of assassination, due to his position in a public utility service, it is specified.

Furthermore, the investigations reveal that the members of this terrorist cell were sharing digital content of a terrorist nature, such as those documenting the suicide bombings and assassinations committed by Daesh in several regions of the world, as a means of consecrating the extremist ideology and inciting the perpetration of crimes on the national territory.

Pending the determination of the regional and international ramifications of this cell, as well as the full extent of its destructive plans and projects, the apprehended individuals have been placed in custody.