Moroccan authorities announced the successful apprehension of 12 individuals suspected of being part of a significant terror plot linked to the Islamic State’s Sahel Province. The arrests were conducted simultaneously across nine cities, including Tamesna, located near the capital, Rabat. This operation was the result of a coordinated effort led by the General Directorate of National Security and the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance.
According to the statement released by these security agencies, the suspects were allegedly motivated and directed by a high-ranking leader of the Islamic State based in the Sahel region. This individual is said to oversee an “external operations committee” that manages jihadist activities outside the traditional boundaries of the Sahara and Sahel.
Despite Morocco’s relatively stable security environment in recent years, the authorities continue to be vigilant, frequently reporting on arrests that thwart potential attacks. Just last month, officials disclosed that they had disrupted an intended assault near Casablanca, arresting four individuals linked to the Islamic State.
Habboub Cherkaoui, the chief of the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations, had previously cautioned that extremist groups originating from sub-Saharan Africa present a growing threat to Morocco. He revealed that since the end of 2022, approximately 130 Moroccans have traveled to conflict zones in Somalia and the Sahel, many of whom are believed to be attempting to extend their militant activities into Morocco.
The recent arrests underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Moroccan authorities in combating potential terrorism threats, especially those connected to international jihadist networks. The country’s security forces remain on high alert in their efforts to prevent violence and maintain stability.
