The Civil Guard has detained an ISIS activist in Seville, who allegedly conducted intensive activities across multiple social networks and preached jihadism within those channels. Prosecutors describe his actions as part of a self-styled “virtual mujahideen” community that sought to recruit and mobilize followers online.
Investigators established that the suspect participated in fundraising and information-sharing that supported terrorism efforts, transmitting data to the General Directorate of Civil Security in connection with the case.
The detainee was subsequently referred to Central Education Court No. 5 of the National Court, which approved his detention in prison.
Evidence indicates that the individual used encrypted instant messaging platforms to express support for the jihadist cause and to coordinate activity.
He created numerous social media accounts and joined groups and channels whose primary purpose was the dissemination of jihadist content. These networks aligned with official propaganda apparatus and DAESH sympathizers.
The person’s commitment to the extremist narrative was further demonstrated through the editing of jihadist videos with specialized software, a technique aimed at circumventing moderation and security protocols of main social media portals.
Through these actions he shared thousands of files across the profiles he managed, praising attacks and violent operations attributed to DAESH.
The detainee described this online engagement as the work of a “virtual mujahideen,” a phrase used to justify and amplify dissemination to reach a broader audience.
Civil Guard officials note that individuals like the detainee play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding jihadist networks by gaining recognition within terrorist circles and coordinating propaganda campaigns.
These propaganda missions, powered by new technologies, are carried out by terrorist groups that actively join conflicts or carry out attacks.
The operation was conducted by agents from the Civil Guard Information Service, the Rapid Action Group, and the Sinology Service. It received authorization and oversight from the aforementioned court and the National Court Prosecutor’s Office, with coordination through Europol.