Morocco Launches Major Anti-'Terrorist' Operation

Spanish police arrest a man suspected of belonging to a militant cell that simulated decapitations in the Spanish north African enclave of Melilla, September 6, 2017. REUTERS/Jesus Blasco de Avellaneda
Spanish police arrest a man suspected of belonging to a militant cell that simulated decapitations in the Spanish north African enclave of Melilla, September 6, 2017. REUTERS/Jesus Blasco de Avellaneda
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Morocco Launches Major Anti-'Terrorist' Operation

Spanish police arrest a man suspected of belonging to a militant cell that simulated decapitations in the Spanish north African enclave of Melilla, September 6, 2017. REUTERS/Jesus Blasco de Avellaneda
Spanish police arrest a man suspected of belonging to a militant cell that simulated decapitations in the Spanish north African enclave of Melilla, September 6, 2017. REUTERS/Jesus Blasco de Avellaneda

Moroccan investigators questioned around 50 people Wednesday across the kingdom in a major operation targeting suspected militant supporters, local media reported, citing security sources.

Among them, 21 were arrested on suspicion of having pledged allegiance to ISIS group or Al-Qaeda, the reports said, adding anti-terrorist special forces were involved.

Officers seized knives, publications defending "terrorism", and instructions for making explosives, they added, AFP reported.

The North African country has been largely spared acts of violence by militant groups, but its security services often report crackdowns and foiled attack plans.

Last week police in Morocco and Spain said two people, including an ISIS supporter, had been arrested in a joint operation by both countries' security services targeting "terrorists".