Maroc Hebdo: investigations in may 16 attacks probe international links, justice minister
Morocco, Local, 7/12/2003

The terrorist attacks of last May 16 in Casablanca are "surely organized crimes" and are linked to an international terrorist organization, said Moroccan justice minister, Mohamed Bouzoubaa, in an interview published by Moroccan weekly "Maroc Hebdo."

The official said the ongoing investigation is precisely probing these international links. He explained that there are several leads that point to international connections, mainly the fact that some of the terrorist acts masterminds and supervisors were trained in Afghanistan and received funds from abroad. He went on that communiqu?s released abroad supported and backed the operations.

Asked on the threats that the ongoing trial of several journalists could have on civil liberties in Morocco, Bouzoubaa said the journalism profession is regulated by a law that provides for sanctions in case of abuses and that like all other citizens, journalists have rights and duties. "Consequently, he went on, any law abuse is subject to judiciary action and trial."

He further insisted that the ongoing trial of a few journalists in connection with the attacks should not be interpreted as a regression of the freedom of expression in Morocco.

Regarding the anti-terrorist law enacted last month in Morocco, he explained that the parliament and the government have carefully seen to it that the law be supported by "all the guarantees" stipulated in the penal procedure code adopted a year ago, particularly those related to the respect of the defense rights, the right to a fair trial, the preventive detention procedure, provisional detention and the presence of an attorney during the preliminary investigation.

Previous Stories:
  Twenty persons stand trial for acquaintances with underground violent group   (7/11/2003)
  Two of three journalists arrested for publishing articles undermining state security released   (7/11/2003)
  Fourteen suspected terrorists stand trial at court of appeal   (7/5/2003)
  Eight persons arrested for advocating and financing terrorism   (6/24/2003)

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