The recent arrest of an employee of the Dutch Counter-Terrorism and Security Coordinator (NCTV) and a policewoman for disclosing state secrets has shaken the Netherlands. This affair, which raises major questions about national security, is marked by suspicions of links with Morocco. In this article, we delve into the heart of this complex matter to understand its implications and ramifications.
An Explosive Affair
Dutch authorities announced the arrests last week, saying the two suspects are suspected of leaking sensitive information from police units tasked with combating terrorism, extremism and radicalization. The main suspect, Abderrahim El M., an NCTV employee, is suspected of being at the heart of this affair. As the unit’s Arabic translator and chief analyst, he would have had access to critically important confidential information.
Dutch media reports quickly suggested that these disclosures may have benefited Morocco. The precise details of the information disclosed and its potential impact remain unclear, but this affair quickly took on an international dimension, raising major concerns.
Doubt has been hovering for a long time
This is not the first time that Abderrahim El M. has been suspected of collaborating with the Moroccan government. Dutch police reportedly received several warnings over the years, suggesting that this NCTV employee was linked to intelligence activities for the benefit of Morocco. However, there are still many gray areas about how these alerts were handled and whether any action was taken.
Reaction of the Dutch Authorities
The arrests were a blow to Dutch authorities. The NCTV, which reports to outgoing Justice Minister Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius, is responsible for coordinating national efforts to combat terrorism and ensure internal security. In a letter to parliament, Minister Yesilgöz-Zegerius called the arrests “a very disturbing message” and insisted on the need for a proper and independent investigation.
However, the revelations about this affair deeply shocked Dutch lawmakers. They called for further investigations to shed light on the matter, particularly the potential risks it could pose to national security.
Political Reactions
The political reaction to this affair was strong. Joost Sneller, an MP from the Democrats 66 political party, urged the minister to provide as much detail as possible, including whether people are in immediate danger, as soon as possible in light of the investigation.
MP Geert Wilders, of the Party for Freedom, Identity and Democracy, recalled memories of a controversial statement he made during the 2014 election campaign, in which he promised to reduce the number of Moroccans in the countries -Low, sparking great indignation at the time.
Troubling Precedents with Morocco
It is important to note that Morocco has already been involved in a major European scandal, known as “Qatargate”. This scandal broke out last year and involved MEPs who were allegedly approached and bribed to lobby for Morocco’s interests in the European Parliament. This affair has already highlighted Morocco’s capacity to carry out influence operations in European political spheres.
The Questions That Remain
As the investigation into this state secrets disclosure case continues, many questions remain unanswered. What were the motivations behind these disclosures? What was the exact role of the policewoman involved? Are the repercussions of this case limited to the Netherlands or do they have wider international implications?
These questions remain at the heart of this complex matter, and the answers could have major consequences for security and international relations. As the Netherlands attempts to shed light on this matter, the world is watching future developments with concern.
