Morocco: A series of terrorist attacks foiled

The Moroccan anti-terrorism agency announced that it had thwarted several terrorist attack plots targeting sensitive sites and public security, which were allegedly planned by a cell affiliated with the Sahelian branch of Daesh.

Ten suspects were arrested during coordinated operations carried out in the cities of Agadir, Taroudant, Casablanca, El Hajeb, Tetouan, Fkih Ben Salah and Safi, according to a statement from the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ).

Initial investigations revealed that the suspects had pledged allegiance to Daesh and received direct instructions from the group's Sahelian branch to carry out terrorist attacks on Moroccan territory.

This operation underlines the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups operating in the Sahel, where branches of Daesh and Al-Qaeda have strengthened their presence in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

Weapons seized

During the searches, authorities seized bladed weapons, military-style clothing, documents containing instructions for manufacturing explosive devices, digital equipment and chemical substances, the BCIJ said.

Investigators also discovered a modified vehicle that was believed to have been intended for use in a suicide bombing or car-ramming attack.

Security forces also seized butane gas cylinders and pressure cookers, some filled with nails and others connected to an electrical wiring system, in a warehouse used by the group.

According to BCIJ figures, Daesh's African branches have recruited more than 130 Moroccan fighters in recent years.

Since its creation in 2015, the BCIJ claims to have dismantled dozens of terrorist cells and arrested more than 1,000 people suspected of having links with terrorist organizations.

The last recorded terrorist attack in Morocco took place in 2023, when three individuals claiming allegiance to Daesh killed a Moroccan policeman in Casablanca.