Security cooperation between Morocco and Spain leads to dismantling an ISIS cell

The recent security operation reflects a long-standing strategic cooperation that has, since 2014, resulted in the dismantling of more than 30 terrorist cells between the two countries.

Moroccan authorities, in coordination with their Spanish counterparts, successfully dismantled a terrorist cell linked to the terrorist organization “ISIS” in a joint operation carried out on Wednesday morning. The operation was overseen by the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), under Morocco’s General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST), in cooperation with the General Information Commissariat (CGI) of the Spanish National Police, reflecting European agencies’ trust in Morocco in the field of counterterrorism.

• Morocco foils terrorist attacks planned by ISIS sympathizers

• The Global Coalition against ISIS Holds a meeting in Morocco

In an official statement, the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations stated that this high-level security operation is part of ongoing cooperation and joint investigations between Moroccan and Spanish security services, aimed at neutralizing terrorist threats and dismantling extremist networks and organizations that threaten the security of both countries.

Simultaneous field operations resulted in the arrest of two individuals in Tangier by DGST special forces, while Spanish police arrested the cell leader in the city of Mallorca. Preliminary investigation results revealed that the two individuals arrested in Morocco were involved in financing and providing logistical support to fighters operating within ISIS branches in the Sahel region south of the Sahara and in Somalia, while the cell leader was planning to carry out a terrorist attack in Spain using lone-wolf tactics.

• Anti-ISIS coalition meeting in Marrakech strengthens Morocco’s role in counterterrorism

• Terrorist cell loyal to ISIS dismantled in Eastern Morocco

Security authorities confirmed that the two suspects in Morocco have been placed in custody as part of the judicial investigation conducted by the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations under the supervision of the public prosecutor in charge of terrorism cases, in order to uncover all the network’s extensions and its connections at both national and regional levels.

Morocco and Spain attach great importance to coordination and security cooperation, which has led to the dismantling of numerous terrorist cells and the arrest of dozens of individuals wanted by justice in various cases.

Security officials in both countries are keen to exchange visits regularly to strengthen security cooperation and intelligence sharing.

• Morocco: The arrest of 4 peoples having links to claimed ISIS assault conspiracy

• Morocco detains four extremist suspects linked of the ISIS

Spain relies on the expertise developed by Morocco in tracking terrorist elements and thwarting their plans targeting international stability, thanks to a high level of vigilance and the readiness of its forces to address all security threats.

This latest security operation embodies a long trajectory of strategic cooperation between the two countries, which since 2014 has resulted in the dismantling of more than 30 terrorist cells and has directly contributed to foiling dangerous plots threatening regional security. This partnership represents a model of European security coordination with Morocco, which has demonstrated its effectiveness in detecting and analyzing terrorist networks before their threats reach European soil, thereby enhancing Rabat’s position as a key pillar in counterterrorism efforts at the continental level.

• Military cooperation expands Morocco’s presence in the Horn of Africa

• France warns of a terrorist surge and praises Morocco’s role in foiling attacks

This ongoing cooperation underscores the importance of European reliance on Moroccan security services to confront ISIS and other extremist organizations. Moroccan authorities have previously succeeded in dismantling numerous cells and neutralizing real threats, strengthening mutual trust and placing Morocco among the leading actors in safeguarding both European and regional security.

Morocco plays a pivotal role in international security efforts aimed at combating terrorism and drying up the sources of extremism. It relies on a comprehensive security strategy to address various risks and threats, as well as on international alliances and partnerships, particularly with the United States and other Western countries, which have strengthened its capabilities.

• Extremism knocks on France’s door amid political crisis

• Turkish Report Reveals ISIS Expansion in Africa and Its Growing Threat: What Does It Say?

• Morocco: The Most Qualified to Represent Africa at the Security Council

• Morocco Strengthens Connectivity with Sub-Saharan Africa through a Maritime Line between Agadir and Dakar