Court sentences two extremists to five years

The appeal court of Rabat sentenced Tuesday two extremists accused of belonging to Salafia Jihadia underground group to 5 years.

Abdelilah Zaafri alias "Djaiji" and Abdennebi Mennouni alias "Abdellah" were sued under the anti-terrorist law for conspiracy with a view to perpetrate terrorist acts, premeditated attempt to threaten people's life and security, theft attempt and extortion of money, attempt to make and possess explosives, attempt to collect funds destined for terrorist acts, terrorism defense, assault and battery with knife and having activities part of non-authorized associations.

The defendants denied during the hearing any connection with Salafia Jihadia group and rejected charges that they supervised training of the underground group members or were part of militias that made night tours to fight deviations through violence. They even condemned the terrorist attacks that hit Casablanca in May 16 claiming the lives of 44 persons including 12 suicide bombers.

The two men admitted nonetheless that they attended lessons in Fez given by Salafia Jihadia theoreticians.

The court summoned a witness who said he was subjected to acts of violence by one of the defendants who tried to force him to adhere to their militia.

For its part, the defense deemed that the two defendants were victim of ideas that were instilled into them because of their low level of education.