Moroccan authorities have foiled ISIS-inspired attacks targeting sensitive sites and public security after dismantling a suspected terrorist cell linked to the Islamic State’s affiliate in the Sahel.
The coordinated security operation led to the arrest of 10 suspects across several Moroccan cities, according to the Central Bureau for Judicial Investigations (BCIJ). Officials said preliminary investigations indicate the group had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and was acting under direct instructions from the terrorist organization’s Sahel branch.
The operation highlights Morocco’s continued efforts to counter extremist threats as jihadist groups expand their activities across the Sahel region.
ISIS-inspired attacks targeted key locations
The BCIJ said security forces carried out coordinated raids in Agadir, Taroudant, Casablanca, Hajeb, Tetouan, Fqih Ben Salah and Safi.
Authorities said the suspects were allegedly planning ISIS-inspired attacks against sensitive facilities and locations linked to public security.
Investigators believe the group maintained direct communication with the Islamic State’s Sahel affiliate, which reportedly provided operational guidance for the planned attacks.
The agency did not disclose the exact targets but described them as strategic locations that could have threatened national security.
Weapons and explosive materials recovered
During searches of the suspects’ properties, investigators recovered several items believed to have been prepared for terrorist operations.
The BCIJ said officers seized bladed weapons, military-style clothing, digital devices and documents containing instructions for manufacturing explosive devices.
Authorities also recovered chemical substances that investigators suspect could have been used in assembling improvised explosive devices.
In addition, security personnel discovered a modified vehicle believed to have been intended for either a suicide bombing or a vehicle-ramming attack.
The agency said officers also found butane gas cylinders and pressure cookers, some filled with nails and connected to electrical wiring, at a warehouse linked to the group.
Sahel insurgency fuels ISIS-inspired attacks
Moroccan authorities said the investigation illustrates the growing influence of jihadist groups operating across the Sahel.
The region has witnessed an expansion of extremist organisations affiliated with both the Islamic State and al-Qaeda, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that instability in the Sahel has increased the risk of cross-border terrorist activities across North and West Africa.
According to the BCIJ, extremist networks continue to recruit supporters beyond conflict zones, creating security concerns for neighbouring countries.
Morocco strengthens counterterrorism operations
Morocco has intensified its counterterrorism strategy in recent years to prevent extremist attacks before they occur.
The BCIJ reported that more than 130 Moroccan fighters have joined Islamic State branches operating across Africa.
Since the agency was established in 2015, Moroccan authorities have dismantled dozens of terrorist cells and arrested more than 1,000 suspected jihadists.
Officials say intelligence-sharing, surveillance and coordinated security operations remain central to the country’s counterterrorism efforts.
Security agencies remain on high alert
The latest operation follows previous counterterrorism actions aimed at disrupting extremist networks before attacks can be carried out.
The last successful jihadist attack in Morocco occurred in 2023 when three individuals loyal to the Islamic State killed a Moroccan police officer in Casablanca.
Authorities say recent intelligence operations demonstrate their continued commitment to preventing similar incidents and protecting public safety.
The foiled ISIS-inspired attacks underscore the persistent security challenges facing countries across North Africa as extremist organisations seek to expand their influence beyond traditional conflict zones. Moroccan authorities say investigations into the suspects and their wider network are continuing as security agencies work to prevent future terrorist threats.
