Turkish intelligence operation in Africa leads to arrest of another al-Qaida terrorist

A second terrorist has been arrested in Adana following intelligence gathered from an al-Qaida member captured by Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) in an operation in Africa.

The operation, which targeted individuals involved in attacks on the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) in Syria, led to the apprehension of Ahmet Baykara, a key al-Qaida figure. His confession provided the information necessary for the subsequent arrest.

MIT captures al-Qaida member in Africa

Ahmet Baykara, 28, was captured by MIT on Oct. 15 in an undisclosed African country. Baykara had been on the run after participating in attacks on TSK bases and convoys in Syria’s Idlib region. Turkish authorities tracked his movements and apprehended him as part of an ongoing counterterrorism effort.

Baykara’s capture was the result of extensive intelligence work that identified his role in multiple cross-border attacks against Turkish forces. After his arrest, he was transferred to Adana, where his interrogation revealed the identity of a second terrorist, Y.A., involved in the same operations.

Police operation in Adana leads to second arrest

Following Baykara’s interrogation, Adana’s counterterrorism police unit carried out a raid on the location where Y.A., 29, was hiding. He was taken into custody, and police seized digital materials from the site for further investigation. Y.A. has since confessed to participating in attacks alongside Baykara.

The two individuals are suspected of planning and executing several attacks targeting Turkish military convoys and bases in Syria. After completing the legal procedures, both suspects were transferred to the courthouse in armored vehicles.

MIT’s strategic counterterrorism efforts

The capture of Baykara and Y.A. marks a significant success for Turkish intelligence in disrupting terrorist activities directed at TSK forces. MIT’s intelligence work revealed that Baykara fled to Africa after realizing he was being monitored. The operation in Africa was the culmination of a thorough risk assessment and intelligence-gathering process.

During his interrogation, Baykara provided key details about past attacks and revealed information about planned terrorist activities within Türkiye. This intelligence was critical in identifying his accomplices, leading to further arrests.

Ongoing investigation and legal process

The investigation into Baykara and Y.A.’s activities is ongoing, with authorities continuing to analyze the digital materials seized during the police operation. Both individuals face charges related to their involvement in attacks on TSK forces and their broader role in al-Qaeda’s operations in Syria.