Boubker Sabik, spokesperson for Morocco’s National Police (DGSN) and Territory Surveillance Agency (DGST), highlighted on Thursday in Sale the strict safety protocols used in combating extremist and terrorist threats in the Kingdom and security interventions.
Speaking at a press conference held by the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), Sabik said that all interventions are based on intelligence information and carried out in coordination with the BCIJ and special forces.
These operations follow a stringent protocol to neutralize any terrorist threats, ensure the protection of citizens and their property, and safeguard law enforcement officers and other personnel involved in security interventions.
He underscored that no casualties have occurred among intervention forces during these operations, noting that the protocol can be escalated when there are clear signs of heightened danger.
During the recent operation to dismantle an ISIS-affiliated terrorist cell in the Had Soualem area last week, Sabik highlighted the significant challenges of the operation.
Intelligence suggested that the suspects possessed and tested improved explosive devices, which posed a significant risk to the agents involved in the operation. This required the deployment of sniffer dogs trained to detect explosive devices.
The operation also saw the deployment of precision snipers, positioned both on a helicopter and rooftops, in anticipation of potential retaliation from the suspects, who had previously pledged allegiance to ISIS and reached a “zero point” stage in preparations for executing their terrorist plans. Sabik noted that the deployment of specialized teams is determined based on available intelligence and the level of danger at the intervention site.
He further explained that the terrorists had chosen Had Soualem as their base due to its proximity to their residences and noted that some terrorist cells are shifting operations to rural areas, believing these locations are less susceptible to security vigilance.
Sabik explained that security services are updating their strategies in anticipation of future security challenges, particularly concerning the international and continental sporting events Morocco will soon host, such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. He concluded that ensuring security is crucial to the success of these events and providing a safe environment for sports competitions.