Morocco-Spain Operation Thwarts ISIS-Linked Terror Cell Planning Attacks

Composed of three members, this terrorist cell was operating in Morocco and Spain until January 11, when based on the information received, the BCIJ elements and the Spanish police carried out two simultaneous operations that led to the dismantling of this network. One member of the cell was arrested in Chtouka Aït Baha, Morocco, and the other two were apprehended in Almería, Spain. The three suspected terrorists had failed to join the ranks of Daesh in the Sahel. As retaliation, they had decided to carry out terrorist acts.

In Chtouka Aït Baha, the searches led to the seizure of digital equipment, which were subjected to technical expertise. There was also a bladed weapon, a mask and documents praising Daesh. The suspect arrested in Morocco was taken into custody pending the conclusions of the investigation opened under the supervision of the prosecutor’s office in charge of terrorism cases. As for those arrested in Spain, they are subject to investigations led by the Spanish authorities.