Dismantling of a Terrorist Cell Planning Attacks in Morocco: A Successful Security Operation
The Central Bureau for Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), in collaboration with the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST), conducted a large-scale security operation on Wednesday morning, successfully neutralizing a terrorist plan targeting Morocco. This operation, based on information provided by the DGST, resulted in the arrest of 12 extremists aged between 18 and 40, who are believed to have been preparing violent attacks under the direct influence of a senior official from the terrorist organization Daesh operating in the Sahel region.
The operation was carried out simultaneously across several Moroccan cities, including Laâyoune, Casablanca, Fes, Tangier, and others, where members of the cell were apprehended. Special units from the DGST were deployed to ensure the security of the operations, employing advanced techniques, including assault teams and explosive detection specialists. Precautionary measures also included evacuating residents from areas near the intervention sites to guarantee their safety.
Investigations revealed that this terrorist cell had direct ties to a high-ranking Daesh official in the Sahel, responsible for “external operations.” This official oversaw the coordination and funding of terrorist projects, providing digital content detailing how to implement the attacks. Among the items seized during the operation were modified gas canisters, explosive devices, bladed weapons, as well as chemical materials used for making explosives.
The cell members were divided into groups: those responsible for preparing and coordinating the attacks, and those designated to execute these plans. According to the obtained information, the targeted sites included law enforcement members, sensitive facilities, and foreign interests present in Morocco. Acts of sabotage, including arson, were also planned.
This operation by the BCIJ highlights once again the growing threat posed by terrorist organizations in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, and underscores Morocco’s ongoing efforts to counter these risks. The dismantling of this terrorist cell follows multiple security alerts issued by the DGST regarding the increasing connections between Daesh and extremist groups operating in North Africa.
Moroccan authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the extent of Daesh networks both within Morocco and internationally, and to identify any potential ramifications in the country. The 12 suspects apprehended have been placed in custody for further investigation.
