Spain-Morocco counterterrorism cooperation led to dismantling of ISIS-affiliated cell
A joint security operation conducted by Morocco’s Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ) and Spain’s General Commissariat of Information led to the dismantling of an ISIS-affiliated terrorist cell composed of three individuals that were operating in the two countries.
The security interventions conducted by elements of the special forces of the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) have allowed the arrest of one of the extremist elements in Chtouka Ait Baha, while simultaneously Spanish authorities arrested two other members of the same cell in Almeria, said the BCIJ in a statement.
The investigations revealed that the arrested persons have pledged allegiance to “Daesh” and were active in the dissemination and promotion of extremist ideas to recruit and enlist other people, the statement added.
The suspects sought to get involved in terrorist operations after they failed to join the strongholds of “Daesh” in the Sahel region where they had links with fighters responsible for recruiting and facilitating access to volunteers to fight in this area, noted the statement.
The search conducted at the home of the suspect arrested in Chtouka Ait Baha allowed the seizure of equipment and digital media that will be subjected to the necessary technical expertise, as well as a hood, a sharp metal piece and manuscripts on “Daesh”.
The individual arrested in Morocco was placed in custody to complete the judicial investigation conducted under the supervision of the prosecutor’s office in charge of terrorism and extremism, while the competent Spanish authorities will conduct the necessary investigations and inquiries with the two members of this cell arrested in Spain.
Security and counter-terrorism cooperation between Morocco and Spain continues to be as close as ever. The two Kingdoms’ security services hold regular meetings to bolster their cooperation and neutralize all the terrorist threats facing both countries.
