Full List Of Security Agencies In Morocco: Duties And Responsibilities

Morocco has established a comprehensive security framework that includes police, intelligence, military, and paramilitary units. These security agencies play a central role in maintaining national peace, internal order, counter-terrorism, and border protection. With threats evolving across North Africa, Morocco’s security structure is crucial to its long-term stability and global partnerships.

This article breaks down the main security and law enforcement agencies in Morocco, their functions, and how they safeguard the country.

Summary Table: Morocco’s Key Security Agencies and Their Roles

1. Royal Armed Forces (Forces Armées Royales – FAR)

FAR comprises the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Royal Gendarmerie. It is Morocco’s primary defense body, responsible for:

• Defending against external threats

• Participating in peacekeeping missions

• Supporting civil protection during national disasters

• Monitoring borders, especially in sensitive regions like the Sahara

2. General Directorate for National Security (DGSN)

Also known as the Moroccan Police, DGSN handles:

• Daily law enforcement and crime prevention

• Issuing national ID cards and driver’s licenses

• Road safety and accident investigations

• Policing major cities and urban centers

3. General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST)

DGST is Morocco’s domestic intelligence agency, focusing on:

• Counterterrorism and radicalization

• Counterintelligence

• Internal threat monitoring

• Surveillance of extremist activities

DGST works closely with international partners to combat terrorism.

4. Royal Gendarmerie

This military force operates in rural areas and plays a dual role as police and military support. Their duties include:

• Law enforcement outside city zones

• Traffic enforcement on highways

• Supporting the army and local administrations

• Investigating rural crimes and accidents

5. Auxiliary Forces (Forces Auxiliaires)

These paramilitary forces are vital during:

• Natural disasters and emergencies

• Crowd control and major public events

• Supporting police and gendarmerie in crises

They operate under the Ministry of Interior and are visible during elections and national celebrations.

6. Royal Navy and Air Force

These branches of the FAR are responsible for:

• Securing Moroccan territorial waters and airspace

• Preventing illegal immigration and piracy

• Participating in international peacekeeping missions

• Conducting search and rescue operations at sea

7. Moroccan Customs and Excise Administration (ADII)

ADII ensures border integrity by:

• Monitoring imports and exports

• Preventing smuggling and contraband trafficking

• Collecting customs duties

• Coordinating with police and military at borders

8. General Directorate of Prison Administration and Reintegration (DGAPR)

This agency supervises:

• Prison security and inmate welfare

• Rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners

• Respect for human rights within correctional facilities

9. National Brigade of Judicial Police (BNPJ)

BNPJ is Morocco’s elite crime-fighting unit handling:

• Complex criminal investigations

• Financial crimes and cybercrimes

• Counterterrorism operations

• Coordinating with international law enforcement (e.g., Interpol)

FAQs – Morocco’s Security Agencies

1. What is the difference between DGSN and DGST?

DGSN is Morocco’s national police force in charge of public safety and criminal law enforcement. DGST handles domestic intelligence and counterterrorism operations.

2. Who protects rural communities in Morocco?

The Royal Gendarmerie ensures safety in rural regions, highways, and areas outside the reach of urban police forces.

3. Are Morocco’s security agencies involved in international peacekeeping?

Yes, the Royal Armed Forces frequently participate in UN peacekeeping missions and regional security collaborations.

4. What agency handles smuggling and illegal trade?

The Customs and Excise Administration (ADII) is responsible for preventing smuggling and monitoring trade at all borders.

5. Which agency investigates serious crimes in Morocco?

The BNPJ (National Brigade of Judicial Police) is the main unit for investigating complex and high-level criminal cases, including terrorism and organized crime.

Conclusion

Morocco’s national security relies on the coordination of military, police, intelligence, and paramilitary forces. From urban law enforcement by DGSN to counterterrorism by DGST and rural patrols by the Royal Gendarmerie, each agency plays a unique and vital role.

Understanding these roles not only builds public trust but also helps citizens know where to report issues and seek protection. As threats evolve, Morocco continues to adapt its security architecture to safeguard its sovereignty and people.