Shootout reported between Al Qaida operatives dressed as women and Saudi agents
ABU DHABI — At least three people were killed in a gun battle between
security forces and Al Qaida in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi sources said the shootout took place on early Oct. 13 in the
southern city of Jizan. Jizan, located near the border with Yemen, has been
regarded as a waystation for Al Qaida fighters and weapons to Yemen, Middle East Newsline reported.
"They [Al Qaida operatives] were in a car dressed as women," Saudi
Interior Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Mansour Al Turki said.
Al Turki said Saudi security forces had received intelligence
information that three men deemed terrorists were driving a car toward
Jizan. He said two of the Al Qaida operatives were killed and a third was
captured.
"Two passengers in the car were wearing women's clothes, and so a female
police officer was called to check them," Al Turki said. "In the meantime,
those inside the car opened heavy fire toward police."
Saudi sources said at least one of the Al Qaida operatives had been
sought by authorities. They said one Saudi security officer was killed in
the shootout.
"The security forces seized explosive devices, bombs and weapons," the
Interior Ministry said.
