Shootout reported between Al Qaida operatives dressed as women and Saudi agents
Wednesday, October 14, 2009 E-Mail this story Free Headline Alerts
ABU DHABI Ñ 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.
"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.