Targetting the leadership

[davidbfpo]

GI Zhou stated in the opening post:

Given the current policy of killing Taliban and Al Qaeda Commanders ,to 'chop off the head of the snake', as the Chinese would say, how do insurgent leaders manage to survive?

Thought about this from a UK law enforcement viewpoint and have a jumble of thoughts - mainly from my time hunting fugitives.

Maintain distance from associates
Minimal communications and none electronic
Use cash only for transactions
Create false identities able to withstand scrutiny
Keep all true ID documents separate from person
No photographs of you and close family (You'd be amazed how many fugitives do not have a reasonable, current photo)
Create a hiding place close to residence used


I am sure if you read through SOE / OSS training manuals for behind the lines activity the principles have not changed.