A 32-year-old man was arrested in Mossos jurisdiction after initiating radical Islamist proclamations in Móra d’Ebre, a town in Tarragona, and revealing an intention to travel to Syria to join a jihadist group. He also stated that he would commit violent acts in Catalonia before departing for the conflict zone. The case highlights how local authorities monitor and respond to extremist ideologies that threaten public safety and regional stability.
Authorities from the Mossos d’Esquadra reported on Saturday that the suspect, whom they have been monitoring since August 2021, faces charges related to jihadist self-radicalization. This charge reflects the authorities’ assessment that the individual independently moved from sympathizing with extremist causes to actively embracing radical propaganda and preparing to take action that could endanger others.
The Catalan police explained that the investigation began when they observed a shift in the man’s behavior. He reportedly changed his stance, grew more aggressive, and openly endorsed jihadist terrorist organizations. This evolution prompted intensified scrutiny by security services and ultimately led to the arrest operation.
Investigators say the detainee conveyed a clear plan to carry out violent acts in Catalonia before proceeding to Syria to participate in armed conflict in support of jihadist groups. Local prosecutors have stressed that such intent requires swift and careful intervention to prevent any potential harm to the public and to thwart recruitment or operational networks deemed dangerous.
According to Mossos, the man consumed jihadist content, including videos praising and promoting extremist violence, with particular emphasis on martyrdom narratives. The authorities note that the online material played a role in shaping his worldview and facilitating a willingness to engage in violent action.
The operation was coordinated by the National High Court Prosecutor’s Office and overseen by Central Court No. 3, with a series of arrests commencing last Thursday. The procedural framework underscores the layered cooperation between national and regional judicial bodies in handling cases tied to national security and international terrorism concerns.
In their public statements, Mossos emphasized the significant role played by agents from the General Information Police Station in this case. Officials stated that their work was crucial in neutralizing the threat posed by the detainee and preventing potential harm to the community. The investigation demonstrated how proactive intelligence gathering and targeted arrests can disrupt radicalization pathways before violence occurs.
The arrested individual was transferred to the Gandesa court in Tarragona, where the judge ordered that he be remanded to a detention facility for foreign nationals. The transfer to a secure facility reflects standard legal procedures for individuals facing security-related charges and ensures appropriate oversight while further investigations and legal proceedings proceed.