The Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), part of Morocco’s Territory Surveillance Services (DGST), dismantled an alleged four-member terrorist network in an operation carried out early on Tuesday in the cities of Tiznit located in the south, and Sidi Slimane in the northwest of the kingdom, according to a press release issued by the National Police (DGSN).
In a concerted effort to address the ongoing threat of violent extremism and safeguard nationwide security, DGST’s special forces arrested four individuals, who range in age from 22 to 44, on suspicion of being associated with “Daesh” and for an alleged conspiracy to commit terrorism offences to undermine public order in Morocco.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused individuals had allegedly been involved in activities aimed at raising funds and logistical support for potential terrorist operations. The statement did not provide any further details regarding the nature of these activities.
The police executed a search warrant at the suspects’ residences, seizing various suspicious items including paramilitary equipment such as a tactical vest, helmet, spotting scope, and a mask.
Extremist manuscripts and electronic devices were also confiscated by the authorities and will be subjected to further forensic examination.
The defendants are now in custody pending further judicial investigations by BCIJ agents under the supervision of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in charge of terrorism and extremism for purposes of uncovering the network’s alleged extremist activities.