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Fitness influencer arrested for concealing ISIS content in workout videos

Saturday 08 February 2025 - 08:50

Spanish and Moroccan authorities have apprehended a social media fitness personality with over 100,000 followers in Madrid as part of a counter-terrorism operation. The suspect allegedly embedded ISIS propaganda materials within fitness and calisthenics tutorial videos shared on social media platforms.

The arrest took place in Madrid's Zarzaquemada district of Leganés, near Avenida Rey Juan Carlos, through a joint effort between Spain's Guardia Civil and Morocco's General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST). A second individual was detained in Pontevedra in connection with the same investigation into jihadist radicalization activities.

Investigators discovered that the suspects utilized their social media profiles, which featured physical training, calisthenics, and self-defense content, to disguise the distribution of extremist messages. The accounts reportedly incorporated jihadist nashids and official ISIS multimedia content within seemingly ordinary fitness routines.

In a separate but related operation, authorities arrested three additional suspects in Toledo province. This operation was coordinated by Central Instruction Court No. 2 and the National Court Prosecutor's Office.

The collaborative investigation between Guardia Civil and DGST identified several individuals in advanced stages of radicalization. One arrestee wielded significant influence within their immediate circle, facilitating the spread of jihadist ideology. Their close followers, including one minor who was also detained, were found to be amplifying these extremist messages.

The suspects operated multiple profiles across digital platforms to distribute terrorist propaganda widely. Law enforcement uncovered substantial amounts of terrorist organization multimedia content in their possession, with particular emphasis on suicide attacks in conflict zones.

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