Moroccan authorities have vehemently denied any involvement in the case of a Moroccan national arrested in Germany on suspicion of spying on supporters of the Hirak al-Shaabi, a protest movement in Morocco.
German authorities arrested Youssef El A. at Frankfurt Airport on Wednesday, accusing him of working for Moroccan intelligence services by gathering information on members of the Hirak movement.
However, a Moroccan security source categorically denied these allegations, stating that Youssef El A. is not affiliated with Moroccan intelligence services. Instead, the source described him as a “radical activist” with links to a separatist group in the Rif region of northern Morocco.
The source further alleged that Youssef El A. is a staunch opponent of the Moroccan government and has actively engaged in activities against the state.
This case has drawn significant attention, as it highlights the ongoing tensions between the Moroccan government and certain segments of the population, particularly in the Rif region, where the Hirak movement emerged in 2016 following protests against social and economic inequality.