Tangier:A 22-year-old suspect linked to the Islamic State (ISIS) was apprehended on October 9, suspected of planning terrorist activities intended to significantly disrupt public order, as reported by the DGSN-DGST pole.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, forensic analyses revealed that the suspect had progressed considerably in the preparation of explosive materials. This was demonstrated by the nature of the substances seized, their assembly, and technical traces indicating experimental detonations conducted by the suspect in anticipation of their possible use in terrorist acts.

The investigation involved analyzing chemical substances and electronic devices seized during the arrest by the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), in cooperation with judicial police services in Tangier. These analyses were performed by the Forensic Chemistry Unit, the Physical Analysis Division, and the Digital Forensics Division of the National Forensic Police Laboratory.

The materials confiscated included triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a sensitive primary explosive, urea fertilizer, and a nitric acid solution for creating urea nitrate explosives. Additionally, powerful chemical powders to enhance blast strength and oxidizing powders for chlorates used in explosive charges were identified. Acetone and acidic solutions, precursors for TATP manufacture, were also found.

Further examinations revealed items such as sodium chloride solution, batteries connected to electrical wires, and a metal object intended for incendiary use. Sodium carbonate and an alkaline solution were detected, used to neutralize acid in explosive preparations. Other items included devices for measuring electrical current, battery chargers, a mobile phone connected to wires, and components for remotely controlled or timed explosive devices. Nails and screw heads, likely intended as shrapnel, were also found.

Digital forensic analysis showed that a specially modified mobile phone seized from the suspect was altered with electronic circuits to enable it to trigger an explosive device. Additional items seized included electrical wires, batteries, adhesive tape, circuit breakers, welding goggles, and chemical substances used in explosive manufacturing.

The suspect also possessed handwritten documents detailing methods used in cyber intrusions. The technical and scientific examinations supported the ongoing investigation by the BCIJ, overseen by the public prosecutor’s office, highlighting the importance of forensic evidence in criminal investigations.