NORDIC MONITOR -- Turkish intelligence set up secret cells of foreign fighters in Syria to use as proxies abroad

The Turkish intelligence service, bolstered by its success in positioning a long-time asset as Syria’s interim president, has devised covert contingency plans to establish clandestine cells. 

These units will comprise carefully vetted foreign jihadists who have long operated in Syria, benefitting from Turkey’s logistical support.

According to confidential sources who spoke to Nordic Monitor, these plans involve deploying select operatives to intimidate their countries of origin or third countries when deemed necessary to advance the political and strategic objectives of the government of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The presence of foreign fighters in jihadist groups in Syria has long been a major concern for many nations, particularly those whose citizens traveled to the region — often via Turkish territory and with the facilitation of Turkey’s intelligence agency, Milli İstihbarat Teşkilatı (MIT).

The potential return of these battle-hardened fighters — highly trained in weaponry, explosives, infiltration and sabotage — has remained a persistent concern for law enforcement and intelligence agencies worldwide. Many foreign governments continue to monitor the movements of their nationals who joined jihadist causes, fearing they may engage in terrorism, destabilize public order or threaten national security upon their return.

'SLEEPER CELLS'

The sources were unable to specify the number of individuals selected from the large pool of potential recruits, but they said these operatives are organized into small, compartmentalized cells, each provided with plausible covers to remain inconspicuous for the time being. 

They will be reactivated when the Erdogan government seeks to use them as bargaining chips with its international interlocutors.