Ex-Moroccan spy sought Spanish protection with intelligence offers

Former Moroccan intelligence agent Mehdi Hijaouy sought protection in Spain during the summer of 2024 by offering to share sensitive information with Spanish authorities. Hijaouy, who had moved to Spain from France due to safety concerns for himself and his family, contacted the entourage of Hugo ‘El Pollo’ Carvajal to facilitate this offer.

According to reports, Hijaouy claimed to possess intelligence regarding the operations of Moroccan intelligence services, including details on the use of Pegasus spyware against Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and various ministers. He also offered information concerning terrorism and organized crime.

The proposal was formally sent via email to the Audiencia Nacional Prosecutor’s Office in October 2024. Prosecutors responded that because the Pegasus case was already under judicial investigation, the information should be directed to the presiding judge. However, judicial sources indicate the offer never reached Judge José Luis Calama. Following the rejection of his collaboration offer, Hijaouy left Spain via a route involving a boat and a private plane, eventually traveling through Turkey. His current whereabouts remain unknown.