Maduro, upon his multi-layered, highly trained and armed personal security detail, which for years successfully thwarted attempts on his life and efforts to capture him, was finally caught by the Delta Force, an elite unit of the US Army, on Saturday.
The Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was protected by a multi-layered, heavily militarised security apparatus, making him one of the most guarded leaders in the world, as he has been at odds with Washington over a decade of ideological conflict and accusations of being involved in narco-terrorism activities inside the United States.
Maduro’s inner security ring was handled by the Presidential Honour Guard (Guardia de Honour Presidencial), an elite unit responsible for his close protection at the Miraflores Palace, official residences and public events. This unit reports directly to the presidency and operates independently of regular police forces.
His protection was supported by the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN), which conducts counter-intelligence, surveillance, threat monitoring and internal security operations. SEBIN plays a key role in foiling assassination plots and neutralising political threats.
The Bolivarian National Guard (GNB) and National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) provided outer-layer security, controlling perimeters, routes, airspace and public venues during Maduro’s movements. Military units routinely escort his motorcades and secure strategic locations.
Maduro also relied on Cuban security and intelligence advisers, a relationship that dates back to the Hugo Chávez era. These advisers are believed to assist in intelligence analysis, personal protection protocols and counter-espionage, although Caracas does not officially disclose their role.
Also see: Dominance Declared: The Era of The Iron Fist Under President Trump is Here
After surviving a 2018 drone attack, Maduro significantly tightened security with measures such as electronic counter-drone systems, restricted airspace, frequent route changes and tightly controlled public appearances. He built an all iron steal bunker inside a forest far away from the where you will see any inhabitant.
America was watching him through satellite and monitored when he stepped out their special task force helicopters landed as he made attempt to run into the bunker, he was blocked.
He surrendered when he discovered it was too late. I have heard about the helicopter before, I think it was one of those used during the capture of Osama Bin Laden. It evades radar and lands noiselessly.
But some people in Nigeria who do not know what security is all about have been skeptical of the air strikes in Sokoto.
America is monitoring even activities within Nigeria. America has details of the killings, Churches burnt, communities sacked and movements of the Fulani Jihadists army.
By Peter Agba Kalu
