The Madrid train bombing, also known as the 11-M bombings, was a series of coordinated terrorist attacks that occurred in Madrid, Spain, on March 11, 2004. The attacks Targeted four commuter trains during the morning rush hour, killing 191 people and injuring more than 2,000 others.
The Investigation
After the bombing, Spanish authorities launched a massive investigation to determine who was responsible for this heinous act. The investigation revealed that the bombings were carried out by an Islamic extremist group with ties to Al-Qaeda.
The Suspects
The suspects in the Madrid train bombing were primarily Moroccan nationals who had been living in Spain for several years. They were radicalized by their involvement with extremist groups and had connections to other terrorist cells around Europe.
Some of the key suspects in the Madrid train bombing include:
- Abdelmajid Bouchar
- Mohammed Afalah
- Jamal Zougam
- Said Berraj
The Mastermind Behind the Attack
The mastermind behind the Madrid train bombing was identified as Serhane Ben Abdelmajid Fakhet. He was a Tunisian national who had been living in Spain since 1987 and was known to Spanish authorities for his involvement with Islamist extremist groups.
Fakhet was killed along with six other suspects when they blew themselves up in an apartment in Leganés, a suburb of Madrid, on April 3, 2004.
The Aftermath
The Madrid train bombing was one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Europe’s history. It led to increased cooperation between European intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies. Additionally, it prompted Spain to withdraw its troops from Iraq, as the bombings were believed to be in retaliation for Spain’s involvement in the Iraq War.
The Legacy of the Madrid Train Bombing
The Madrid train bombing had a profound impact on Spain and Europe as a whole. It highlighted the need for greater cooperation between European countries to combat terrorism and led to increased security measures in public transportation systems. Additionally, it served as a reminder of the devastating consequences of extremism and the importance of tolerance and understanding in a globalized world.
In conclusion, the Madrid train bombing was carried out by an Islamic extremist group with ties to Al-Qaeda. The mastermind behind the attack was Serhane Ben Abdelmajid Fakhet, who was killed along with six other suspects when they blew themselves up in an apartment in Leganés. The legacy of this tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation and vigilance in the fight against terrorism.