Counterterrorism Operation in Spain and Morocco Disrupts ISIS Cell
A joint Spanish-Moroccan counterterrorism operation on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, led to the dismantling of a three-member terrorist cell linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The operation resulted in arrests in Tangier, Morocco, and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Arrests in Tangier and Mallorca
Two individuals were arrested in Tangier by Moroccan special forces affiliated with the General Directorate for National Territory Surveillance. Simultaneously, Spanish authorities arrested the cell’s leader in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Role of the Arrested Individuals
Investigations reveal the two individuals arrested in Morocco played a key role in providing financial and logistical support to ISIS fighters operating in the Sahel region of Africa and Somalia. This support included facilitating the transfer of funds and materials to enhance the capabilities of these terrorist groups.
Planned Attack in Spain
The cell leader, arrested in Mallorca, is suspected of planning a terrorist attack within Spanish territory, utilizing “individual terrorism” methods, too known as lone wolf attacks. The investigation, declared secret by Spain’s National Court (Audiencia Nacional), is being led by a special unit of the National Police.
Operation Details in Palma de Mallorca
The arrest in Palma de Mallorca took place at a residence on Gabriel Maura Street, near Ses Estacions park and the Jacint Verdaguer train station. Dozens of National Police officers, including those dispatched from mainland Spain, were involved in the operation. Authorities confiscated various documents from the property.