Moroccan authorities have arrested a 22-year-old suspect in Tangier who was allegedly linked to the ISIS terrorist organization. The arrest was made on Friday, October 9, after a tip from the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance. The suspect was found to be in possession of documents containing methods for cyberattacks, as well as electronic devices, including a modified phone and materials that could be used to make explosives.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released, was said to have been preparing to carry out terrorist attacks in Morocco. Initial investigations revealed that he had conducted experiments to prepare explosive devices. The authorities seized several materials, including manuscripts with cyberattack methods, a modified phone connected to electrical wires, and equipment such as a welding machine, wires, batteries, and a quantity of nails and electrical cutters.
The investigation, led by the Central Bureau of Judicial Research, found that the suspect had planned to execute terrorist projects in Morocco. The authorities also discovered chemical substances, both solid and liquid, which are suspected to be used in making explosives. These materials will undergo technical and scientific analysis to determine their composition and intended use.
The suspect was referred to the Central Bureau of Judicial Research, where he was placed under judicial supervision for further investigation. The probe is being conducted under the supervision of the Public Prosecutor's Office, which is handling terrorism-related cases. The goal is to uncover all terrorist projects the suspect may have been involved in and determine the extent of his connections within Morocco and abroad.
In a separate incident, Moroccan authorities seized 4.1 tons of cannabis resin in the city of Fez on October 10. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the seizure, which was carried out by the Regional Judicial Police Brigade in Fez, in coordination with the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance.
The cannabis resin was seized in an operation that thwarted an attempt to smuggle the drugs. The suspects, who were taken into custody, are believed to be part of an international drug trafficking network. The authorities continue to investigate the case to determine the origin of the drugs and the intended destination.
The Moroccan authorities have been actively working to combat terrorism and drug trafficking in the country. The arrest of the ISIS suspect and the seizure of the cannabis resin demonstrate the authorities' efforts to ensure public safety and prevent the spread of terrorism and organized crime.
Key points
- Moroccan authorities arrested a 22-year-old suspect linked to ISIS and seized materials used to make explosives and carry out cyberattacks.