seems like the simplest most likely answer is intentional defunding and reduction of security, possibly combined with failures of local PD (intentionally?), while hoping someone would try. Then someone did try (maybe with a handler?), but failed by chance. Now everyone involved is trying to cover up, especially the SS trying to divert blame and divert attention.
The above is far more practical and likely than some complex fakery involving faking at least 2 dead.