BCIJ: Morocco’s Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations, an integral arm of the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), successfully thwarted a potential terrorist threat by dismantling a cell linked to the Daesh terrorist organization on Friday. This operation underscores Morocco’s proactive and strategic role in the global fight against terrorism.
The terrorist cell, comprised of five members who were allegedly preparing to launch attacks aimed at disrupting public order, was apprehended across several locations, including Casablanca, Tangiers, Tetouan, Martil, and the rural commune of Ounagha in the province of Essaouira. The arrests were carried out by the DGST’s elite forces, following extensive surveillance and investigative efforts that uncovered the cell’s sinister plans.
According to the BCIJ’s statement, the suspects, ranging in age from 22 to 46, had pledged allegiance to Daesh’s so-called caliphate. They had also expressed intentions to target vital facilities and security institutions, aligning themselves with campaigns that incite violence and chaos. Highlighting the sophisticated nature of their operation, the BCIJ revealed that one of the cell members, with specialized knowledge in electronics, was in the advanced stages of planning to manufacture explosive devices.
These arrests are part of Moroccan security agencies’ broader strategy to monitor and neutralize threats posed by extremist groups. Morocco has been recognized internationally for its effective counterterrorism measures, which include comprehensive surveillance, community engagement programs, and cooperation with international intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
The kingdom’s approach to combating terrorism is not limited to pre-emptive strikes against potential threats but also encompasses efforts to address the underlying causes of extremism. This includes promoting religious moderation through the training of imams and the monitoring of religious spaces to prevent radicalization. Morocco’s counter-terrorism framework is seen as a model in the region, balancing stringent security measures with social initiatives aimed at deterring the appeal of extremist ideologies.
The detained members of the terrorist cell are currently held for further investigation, led by the BCIJ under the supervision of the terrorism prosecutor’s office. The ongoing investigation aims to shed light on the full scope of the cell’s network, identify potential collaborators, and unravel the details of their planned attacks. This case highlights the continuous vigilance necessary to combat the evolving threat of terrorism and reinforces Morocco’s commitment to maintaining stability and security both regionally and globally.
