Benghazi terror suspect sent to the US to face charges

U.S. Arrests Key Suspect in Benghazi Attack

The United States has taken Zubair al-Bakush into custody, a man believed to be a key figure in the 2012 assault on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi.

Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the arrest on Friday. Bondi mentioned that al-Bakush faces charges of murder, terrorism, and arson linked to the Benghazi attack.

“Zubair al Bakush will now face justice here in America. We’re committed to pursuing this terrorist suspect to the fullest extent of the law,” Bondi stated. “Let this serve as a reminder: if you commit a crime against an American anywhere, President Trump’s Justice Department is going to find you. It might take time, but we will catch up to you. You can run, but hiding won’t work indefinitely.”

Patel stated that al-Bakush was apprehended “overseas,” but didn’t disclose the exact location of the arrest.

“I’m extremely thankful to the CIA, Director Ratcliffe, and our law enforcement partners for showing that when Americans lose their lives to terrorism, we will pursue justice,” Patel shared on Friday.

The FBI director acknowledged President Trump’s backing of law enforcement, emphasizing that the president “has provided the resources we need to combat threats globally.” Patel also highlighted the successful apprehension of individuals listed on the FBI’s most wanted fugitives list.

Pirro, who will lead the prosecution, noted that al-Bakush was first indicted in 2015 with that indictment sealed for 11 years. The newly unsealed indictment accuses him of being responsible for the deaths of U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens, State Department employee Sean Smith, and CIA contractors Glenn Dougherty and Tyrone Woods. Additionally, it includes an attempted murder charge aimed at State Department Special Agent Scott Wicklund.

“The Benghazi incident was a tragic event for Americans and continues to resonate. It’s essential to understand there are still others out there. No matter how much time passes, we won’t stop pursuing these individuals to honor the families enduring unimaginable pain due to terrorism,” Pirro remarked.

On September 11, 2012, a terrorist attack on the U.S. special mission in Benghazi resulted in the deaths of four individuals. A group armed with AK-47 rifles, grenades, and other weapons violently assaulted the facility, leading to shooting and arson. Stevens, Smith, Dougherty, and Woods lost their lives during this tragic event.