Polisario Fighters Surrender to Moroccan Forces in Western Sahara Conflict

Wearing the military uniform used by the separatist front forces - characterized notably by a Soviet cut, Libyan-inspired insignia, and light AKM-type equipment - these three men reportedly left Algerian territory by bypassing the buffer zone through northern Mauritania. But the intrusion was quickly detected by the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) thanks to their new generation ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) systems - including MALE (medium altitude long endurance) drones, three-dimensional radars, and buried acoustic sensor networks that they have possessed since 2021.

The surrender reportedly took place on Thursday afternoon in Oum Dreyga, southwest of the Moroccan defense wall. According to a security expert, the three individuals are currently undergoing a security screening procedure, including interrogation, biometric recording, veracity test (CVSA), and detection of residual chemical fingerprints (TIC), reports Barlamane.

A similar event has occurred in the past. In March 2019, a group of 12 Polisario fighters had already surrendered to the FAR. This event was followed in July 2020 by the defection of a high-ranking Front official.