Morocco thwarts IS-linked attack plots, arrests 12 suspects

Moroccan authorities have arrested 12 people accused of belonging to a terrorist cell linked to the Islamic State’s Sahel affiliate after foiling planned attacks targeting sensitive sites across the country, Reuters reported on July 6.

Morocco’s Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ) said the suspects were detained during coordinated operations in several cities. Authorities said the group was allegedly preparing attacks against security facilities and other strategic locations.

Investigators said the cell maintained links with Islamic State’s affiliate operating in the Sahel, where armed groups have expanded their activities in recent years. Security officials said weapons, electronic equipment and materials believed to be connected to the planned attacks were seized during the raids.

Morocco has strengthened its counterterrorism operations in response to growing security threats across North Africa and the Sahel. The country has regularly dismantled suspected extremist cellsdismantled suspected extremist cells while increasing intelligence cooperation with regional and international partners.

Officials said investigations are continuing to determine the full extent of the network and identify any additional individuals involved in the alleged plots.

The latest operation comes as instability in parts of the Sahel continues to fuel concerns over the movement of extremist groups and the potential spread of violence into neighbouring countries.

Moroccan authorities say they remain committed to preventing terrorist threats through intelligence-led operations and close cooperation with international security partners.

Reuters,Maghrebi