Rabat – Morocco’s National Police (DGSN) and the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST) said on Friday that forensic tests found chemicals used in making explosives among items seized from a suspected extremist arrested in Tangier on October 9.
The tests also found technical evidence suggesting that the 22-year-old suspect had conducted experimental detonations as part of preparations for possible terrorist attacks, according to a joint statement from the two security agencies.
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of preparing operations that could seriously threaten public order. He is affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS) group, the statement said.
The National Police Scientific Laboratory in Casablanca conducted physical and chemical examinations, as well as digital forensic analyses, on the seized materials and electronic devices.
Tests identify explosive materials
According to the statement, laboratory tests detected several substances associated with the manufacture of explosives, including triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a highly sensitive explosive compound.
Investigators also identified urea fertilizer and nitric acid solution, which can be used to produce urea nitrate, an explosive substance.
Other seized materials included strong chemical powders used in explosive mixtures, as well as an oxidizing substance associated with the production of chlorates, which can be used in explosive charges.
The forensic examination also identified substances and equipment that investigators said were consistent with preparations to manufacture explosive devices.
These included acetone and acidic solutions, electrical components, batteries, wires, switches, and metal objects. Investigators also found nails and screw heads that could be used as shrapnel in an explosion.
Modified phone examined
Digital forensic experts examined a mobile phone seized from the suspect and found that it had been modified with electronic circuits and electrical connections.
According to the statement, the phone’s operating system had also been altered to allow it to function as a mechanism for activating an explosive device.
Investigators also found electrical equipment, battery-charging devices, switches, soldering tools, wires, and other components that could be used in the assembly of explosive devices.
The seized items included chemical substances in solid and liquid forms, adhesive tape, welding goggles, and handwritten materials containing methods for cyber intrusion, the statement said.
The security agencies said the combined chemical and digital examinations indicated that the suspect had reached an advanced stage of preparing to manufacture explosives.
They also reported technical traces suggesting that he had carried out experimental detonations in preparation for potential terrorist operations.
The findings form part of an investigation led by the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), under the supervision of the competent public prosecutor’s office.
The authorities said the forensic work demonstrates the role of scientific and technical methods in criminal investigations.
