Colonel's Testimony Reveals Connections Between Officials in Anti-Terror Unit and Alleged Plot Facilitators
Colonel Francisco José Vázquez, who leads the Civil Guard's anti-jihadist terrorism unit known as UCE2, provided critical testimony on Monday regarding the Koldo case in the National Audience. During his statement before the presiding judge, Vázquez revealed that both Víctor de Aldama, the alleged facilitator of a terrorist plot, and Koldo García, a former ministerial advisor, had collaborated with his unit, according to legal sources present at the hearing.
The colonel's declaration raises serious questions about the integrity and operations within the anti-terrorism unit. Notably, Vázquez disclosed that he had decorated De Aldama in 2022, an honor suggested by Commander Rubén Villalba, who is currently under investigation in relation to the case. This connection between military honors and ongoing investigations suggests deeper entanglements that merit further scrutiny.
In an intriguing development, Vázquez also mentioned that Koldo García, who has a history of involvement in combating ETA terrorism, had previously informed him that he was aware of being monitored by agents from the Central Operational Unit (UCO). García reportedly indicated he was available to assist the Civil Guard, even offering Vázquez the keys to his residence.
These testimonies not only highlight potential negligence within the ranks of the Civil Guard but also challenge the credibility of individuals in key anti-terrorism positions. As the investigation continues, the implications of these connections could have significant repercussions on operational protocols and trust within the security forces tasked with combating terrorism in Spain.
As observers await further developments, this case underscores the complexities of counter-terrorism efforts and the critical need for transparency and accountability in the ranks of those sworn to protect the public from threats of violence.
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