Hamas to root out Israeli 'collaborators'

Gaza’s Interior Ministry says campaign will include amnesty offers for Gazans who have cooperated with the Jewish state

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — Gaza’s Hamas rulers say they will begin a new campaign to find Palestinian collaborators with Israel.

Col. Mohammed Lafi of Gaza’s Interior Ministry said Monday that the campaign aims to protect Palestinian militant groups battling Israel. Lafi says they will also warn other Palestinians of the dangers of spying.

Israel security officials have long relied on a network of informants in the Palestinian territories to keep tabs on militants.

Since Hamas seized power in Gaza in 2007, it has taken a tough line on Palestinians accused of collaboration with Israel. Gunmen have killed more than 24 suspected collaborators, and jailed 20 suspects.

A Palestinian rights group urged Hamas to ensure fair trials for the accused.