In a significant development in Mauritania, 24 individuals have been referred to the country's anti-terrorism unit on charges of plotting against state security and money laundering. The decision was made by the Public Prosecutor's Office in Nouakchott-Ouest on November 13, 2026, following an in-depth investigation. The suspects were allegedly involved in a structured criminal organization, according to the findings of the preliminary investigation.
The investigation, led by the State Security Directorate, uncovered evidence of a wide range of serious offenses, including conspiracy against the internal and external security of the state, calls for the abolition of the constitutional order, and damage to national symbols. The suspects are also accused of disclosing military secrets with the aim of undermining troop morale. The use of digital spaces played a central role in the alleged crimes, with coordinated campaigns of disinformation, defamation, and incitement to hatred on social media.
In addition to the security-related charges, two of the suspects are specifically accused of money laundering linked to the alleged network. The investigation revealed hidden financial circuits aimed at disguising the illicit origin of funds. The Public Prosecutor's Office has requested that 15 suspects be detained, seven others be arrested, and two individuals accused of money laundering be subject to reinforced judicial supervision.
The case was revealed by the Mauritanian Public Prosecutor's Office in mid-October 2026. The suspects were interrogated after the collection of material and digital evidence. According to the prosecutor, Abdallahi Ould Ndegjely, the suspects were referred to the specialized anti-terrorism unit following a thorough investigation.
The alleged crimes took place in a context of growing concern about security in Mauritania. The country's authorities have been working to prevent and combat terrorist activities. The suspects' alleged use of social media to spread disinformation and incite hatred highlights the challenges posed by digital technologies in the fight against terrorism.
The case raises questions about the nature and extent of the alleged plot against state security. Further investigation and trial are needed to establish the facts and determine the responsibility of the suspects. The Mauritanian justice system will have to carefully examine the evidence and ensure that the rights of the suspects are respected.
The decision to refer the suspects to the anti-terrorism unit demonstrates the Mauritanian authorities' commitment to addressing security threats. The country's efforts to combat terrorism and organized crime require continued cooperation and coordination between different agencies and institutions.
Key points
- The suspects face charges of plotting against state security, including conspiracy and damage to national symbols.
- Two suspects are specifically accused of money laundering linked to the alleged network.
- The investigation revealed the use of digital spaces to spread disinformation and incite hatred on social media.
