In the municipality of Vallfogona de Balaguer, located in the province of Lleida, officers from the Spanish National Police have detained two men suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. The operation is the result of a prolonged investigation that began a year and a half ago after suspicious online activity was detected, linked to the promotion of Daesh (Daesh) ideology.
According to investigators, one of those detained showed a high level of radicalization. He systematically visited platforms distributing extremist content and actively participated in sharing materials related to jihadist ideology. Furthermore, the man was not only a consumer of such information, but also acted as an intermediary, drawing other users into extremist circles and facilitating their ideological indoctrination.
Investigators note that the suspect did not limit himself to online activity. He considered the possibility of traveling to conflict zones to take part in combat on behalf of terrorist groups. These intentions, along with his longstanding interest in extremist materials, served as grounds for his detention on Thursday morning.
During the police operation, searches were conducted at several locations. As a result, electronic devices and data storage media were seized and are now being examined by experts. Investigators are working to determine whether the detainees had accomplices and the extent of their network of contacts.
Both suspects have been transferred to Madrid, where Central Investigative Court Number 1 is handling the case. By court order, the main suspect has been taken into custody. The second detainee also remains under law enforcement supervision.
The investigation was led by the General Information Directorate of the National Police, with support from units in Lleida, Tarragona, and Barcelona. International partners were also involved—specifically, the Moroccan DGST service—which enabled swift data exchange and coordinated action.
Spanish security services continue to focus on combating online radicalization and preventing citizens from traveling to conflict zones. Authorities emphasize that such operations not only help identify potential threats but also disrupt the spread of extremist ideology at early stages.
In recent years, Spain has seen a rise in investigations related to cyberspace and attempts to recruit through social networks. Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity so that, together, they can counter the threat of terrorism.
