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Al Qaeda: Free Qatada or we will kill Briton
Ed Harris27.04.09
Al Qaeda terrorists in North Africa today threatened to kill a British hostage unless the UK authorities release radical cleric Abu Qatada.
A statement posted on an Islamic website stated that the British tourist would be executed unless Qatada is freed in 20 days. The Briton, who has not been named, and a Swiss holidaymaker were kidnapped in Niger by gunmen from al Qaeda in Islamic North Africa, an Algeria-based group, on 22 January. A German woman, a second Swiss tourist, a Canadian diplomat and his assistant were also taken hostage but were released on Wednesday. The terrorists said they were exchanged for four of their imprisoned fighters.
Qatada, described as "al Qaeda's spiritual leader in Europe", is fighting a bid to extradite him from Britain to Jordan, where he faces terror charges.Home secretary Jacqui Smith signed his deportation order on 18 February.
A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We can confirm that we are aware of the report and it is being analysed."
Reader views (11)
IF they kill one of ours then he should be executed.
- Brian, Wiltshire
Release him from the plane taking him to Jordan whilst its over the north sea.
- Kev, London-UK
I agree with Steve...do away with Qatada....and all the other fanatics.
- Rosie, watford
One excuse is as good as another for these people. If Qatada hadn't been available they'd have found something else to use as their 'justification' for doing what they do anyway. I'm only surprised that these yoyos haven't demanded the release of the tube bomber conspirators too.
- Rogan, Irving
Indeed either send him to Jordan or why not try new sorts of rat poisons on him !
- Terry. B, Toulouse, France
So the Home Office's lack of action on getting this guy out of our country is now a threat to another citizen. Get him deported NOW !
- Barry, woking, GB
Looks like Al Qaeda; doesn't believe in Human Rights at all.
- Mickyinlondon, london
Simple, if they carry out their threat hang Abu Qatada. Problem solved.
- Steve, Sunderland, England
The fault lies with Westminister MP's imposing the Human Rights Act on us citizens with no thought of the consequences.
That's the real reason the legal system is in a mess and the security of UK citizens are at risk until this Act is REPEALD.
- Joe, Swanley Kent
I agree with bloke - send him to Jordan without delay.
- Ab, London
If Aby Qatada's extradition to Jordan had been expedited instead of post-poned, this british hostage would not now be facing a death sentence.
- Bloke, London
