Morocco: Spanish authorities dismantle terrorist cell September 6

Event

Spanish authorities claim to have dismantled a terrorist cell, allegedly linked to the Islamic State (IS), on Wednesday, September 6. Six people have been arrested including the cell’s recruiter and leader in the Spanish city of Melilla and the Moroccan city of Nador. 

According to police, the group was planning a series of attacks in both Morocco and Spain.

Context

This investigation comes just weeks after the terrorist attacks in Catalonia on August 17 and 18. Although no link has been found between the militants in Catalonia and this particular terrorist cell, unrelated investigations have found direct links between the Catalonian assailants and Morocco, heightening the threat of terrorism in both countries.

Since mid-2015, Spanish authorities have detained some 199 suspected terrorists.

Advice

Individuals present in Morocco and Spain are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or objects to the relevant authorities.