Spain tightens counter-terrorism focus on Algerian threats, media reports reveal

Spanish authorities have raised concerns over a potential increase in terrorist activity linked to Algeria, reports local media. 

According to internal government documents, the General Commission for Information (CGI) has identified a growing risk of Algerian nationals forming terrorist cells within Spain. 

Historically, Spain has primarily focused counter-terrorism efforts on Moroccan nationals. However, recent intelligence suggests a shift in the threat landscape. 

Several Spanish newspapers, citing a report by journalist Melchor Sáiz-Pardo, claim that Spanish security leaders now believe the focus on terrorist threats should not be limited to Morocco.

According to the same source, Spanish counter-terrorism police fear that Algerian extremists could form cells in Spain and Europe, filling the power vacuum left by groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS.

Faced with these new threats, Spanish authorities have intensified surveillance of a number of Algerian individuals and initiated deportation proceedings against suspected individuals. 

The report indicated that these concerns arose following the controversial deportation of Algerian dissident and former military officer, Mohamed Benhalima, to Algeria on March 24, 2022. 

Despite warnings from international organizations about the potential for torture in Algeria, Spain proceeded with the deportation, citing serious immigration violations. 

The Ministry of Interior justified the deportation of the Algerian officer by expressing doubts about the authenticity of his claims of opposition to the Algerian military regime. 

Spanish authorities suspected Benhalima’s motives, believing he might be using these claims as a cover for other activities. Consequently, they denied him political asylum. 

The Spanish Interior Ministry characterized him as a weapons expert with military training, suggesting a potential for violence. These claims were included in CGI reports to justify the deportation decision. 

According to the media reports, Spanish counter-terrorism units are reportedly set to broaden their focus beyond Moroccan nationals. These units will now include Algerians in their counter-terrorism strategy, marking a shift in approach to combating terrorism.