afrinpost-Exclusive
Turkish-controlled regions become a refuge for ISIS terrorists, with former leaders rebranded into militias like “Caucasus Brigade” and “Imam Bukhari Group.”
These areas have become a safe haven for elements of the ISIS terrorist organization escaping from Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa provinces, particularly the leadership of the organization. They have either been incorporated into the ranks of militias affiliated with Turkey or formed armed groups like the “Caucasus Brigade” and the “Imam Bukhari Group.”
Farhad Shami, the spokesman of Syrian Democratic Forces, revealed this unsettling development for the first time. He emphasized the dangerous nature of these extremist organizations, operating under the influence of Turkish intelligence.
Recent clashes near the village of “Basilê/Basalhaya” exposed direct confrontations between these rebranded ISIS factions and the Afrin Liberation Forces (HRE), highlighting the complex dynamics in the region.
“afrinpost” previously reported Turkey’s efforts to consolidate jihadist elements along the front lines in the Sherawa district. Concurrently, Turkmen militias patrol areas near the Turkish border, while the “Sultan Murad” militia assumes the role of border guards.
The integration of dozens of former ISIS members into Turkish-affiliated militias, particularly “Ahrar al-Sharqiya” and the “Jaish Al-Sharqiya,” raises concerns. Some of these individuals have even assumed leadership positions within these groups.
The elimination of top-ranking ISIS leaders in areas under Turkish control, spanning Idlib, Afrin, Jarablus, and Al-Bab, further underscores the complex security situation in the region.
