Bilel Tebini

Bilel Tebini, born in Tunisia on 16 October 1988, was the only defendant not detained during the proceedings following the complex Italian counterterrorism investigation named ‘Taliban’. He remained free throughout the investigation, residing in Italy with legal representation. Considered a peripheral figure, his involvement was limited to social media interactions with the other defendants.

The authorities accused Tebini of supporting jihadist ideology through his activity on Facebook, particularly for “liking” or commenting on posts associated with foreign fighters. However, his level of engagement appeared minimal, often consisting of expressing sadness over the deaths of acquaintances or interacting with commemorative posts shared by others.

His interactions were limited to symbolic gestures of sympathy. He never posted original extremist content, nor did he participate in planning or advocacy. While investigators suggested he offered ‘unconditional support’ to his friends’ militant choices, evidence indicated his role was passive, reflecting personal ties rather than an ideological commitment.

Tebini was monitored as part of the same ROS investigation targeting a Tunisian network allegedly linked to ISIS. This included analysing his Facebook activity and occasionally observing him in person. His case exemplified how the broad interpretation of online behaviour could blur the line between ideological sympathy and personal mourning.

The court found no evidence of terrorist intent or propaganda in Tebini’s behaviour. His social media activity was deemed innocuous and lacking in persuasive power. Alongside his co-defendants, he was acquitted of all charges, with the judgement affirming that none of the men were adherents of radical Islam or had been involved in any terrorist organisation.