The Ministry of Interior today confirmed that Abdulaziz Al-Muqren, head of the deviant group that has been terrorizing the Kingdom, and which was responsible for the brutal murder of U.S. hostage Paul Johnson, was one of the four suspects killed in the siege that took place last night in the Maalaz area of the city of Riyadh. The three others killed have been identified as Faisal Aldakheel, Turki Al-Mutairi, and Ibrahim Al-Duraihem. The latter was being sought for his participation in the Al-Muhaya attack earlier this year. One security officer was killed, and two others wounded.

Found at the scene were three cars, one of which was used in the recent attack on a BBC journalist and his photographer; ammunition and weapons, including sub-machine guns, rocket launchers, pipe bombs and grenades; and a stack of identity papers.

Security forces have arrested a total of 12 persons suspected of having links with the recent terrorist incidents, but are withholding their identities pending investigation.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Commander of the National Guard Crown Prince Abdullah bin Abdulaziz made a telephone call last night to U.S. President George W. Bush to express condolences on the murder of Mr. Johnson.

[see also press release by Adel Al-Jubeir at June 18 press conference]  

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