Moroccan and Spanish authorities have jointly dismantled a Daesh-linked terrorist cell in the Sahel region.

The operation, led by Morocco’s BCIJ (under DGST) and Spain’s National Police Intelligence Directorate, resulted in the arrest of nine suspects on Friday.

Three were detained in Tetouan and Fnideq, and six in Madrid, Ibiza, and Sebta.

The BCIJ disclosed that searches at the suspects’ residences uncovered bladed weapons and electronic equipment, which are now undergoing digital forensic analysis.

According to a statement, preliminary investigations revealed that some of the suspects had previously been imprisoned in Spain on terrorism-related charges.

The individuals were allegedly promoting Daesh ideology, holding meetings in Sebta and Tetouan, and coordinating activities to support Daesh operations in the Sahel region south of the Sahara.

Authorities stated that the suspects arrested in Tetouan and Fnideq are currently in custody under the supervision of the specialized public prosecutor’s office for terrorism and extremism cases.

The ongoing investigation aims to uncover their internal and external connections and assess their involvement in the group’s terrorist plans.

The joint operation underscores the strong and continuous security collaboration between Moroccan and Spanish agencies to combat terrorist threats.

This partnership is part of an ongoing effort to safeguard both nations from extremist activities.