Moroccan security forces seized three sabre-wielding suspects today in connection with suicide bombings that killed 45 people in Casablanca a year ago, the official MAP news agency said.
The men were arrested after an exchange of gunfire during an overnight police raid on a house in the Hay Hassani district on the southern outskirts of Casablanca.
One of those held was Abdelmalek Bouizagarne, believed to be a top planner in the five coordinated attacks carried out by 12 Islamic suicide bombers on May 16th, 2003.
MAP identified the others as Mohamed Jermouni and Mourad Lamnaouar. Two of the three suffered bullet wounds in the legs.
Government sources said about half a dozen alleged Islamic militants were cornered by security forces in Sid Elkhadir and that four, not three, people were arrested.
One of was reported to be in critical condition in hospital with bullet wounds. The others escaped.
MAP said counterfeit money and sabres were seized, along with passports and identity cards belonging to other people.