17 Feb 2019 | 07:51 PM UTC
Morocco: Authorities arrest members of suspected terrorist cell
Moroccan authorities announce the arrest of five members of a suspected Islamic State terrorist cell on February 15
Event
Morocco's Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation (BCIJ) announced on Friday, February 15, that it had dismantled a suspected terrorist cell and arrested five people in Safi. Authorities claim the group had sworn allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) and had plans to conduct attacks in the country. According to the government, more than 180 similar cells have been dismantled since 2002.
Context
Morocco has a persistent low-level threat of terrorism. In 2017, 17 people died in the bombing of a popular market in Marrakesh.
Advice
Individuals in Morocco are advised to remain vigilant for militant and criminal behavior, report any suspicious behavior or objects to the authorities, and adhere to all instructions and advice issued by local authorities and their home governments.
