Morocco Arrests 10 Suspected ISIS Members Linked to Sahel-Based Cell
Morocco Arrests 10 Suspected ISIS Members Linked to Sahel-Based Cell
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Morocco’s Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations announced on Monday the arrest of 10 people allegedly linked to a terrorist cell supported by ISIS in the Sahel region.
The suspects include a former terrorism convict and a minor. Authorities said they had foiled “extremely dangerous” plots that were at an advanced stage of preparation.
According to a statement from the bureau, simultaneous operations were carried out in Agadir, Taroudant, Casablanca, El Hajeb, Tetouan, Fquih Ben Salah, and Safi. The arrests followed intelligence work and field investigations that tracked the activities and movements of the cell members.
Authorities said the planned attacks aimed to undermine public order and threaten the safety of people and property.
Searches reportedly uncovered bladed weapons, military uniforms, handwritten documents on explosives manufacturing, and digital devices. Two recordings were also found, containing a pledge of allegiance to ISIS and threats to carry out destructive acts in Morocco.
A search of a warehouse in Inezgane led to the discovery of an off-road vehicle modified to operate on butane gas. Authorities suspect it was being prepared for a suicide attack or vehicle-ramming assault targeting sensitive sites.
Residents near the warehouse were evacuated as a precaution, while a bomb disposal team from the national security services inspected the vehicle to rule out any danger.
Seized materials also included gas cylinders, pressure cookers filled with nails and connected to electrical wires, welding equipment, and chemical substances.
Investigations indicated that the leader of the cell had assigned specific roles to members, including target reconnaissance, surveillance, and acquiring materials needed to carry out attacks.
