Saudi Arabia arrests 18 Islamic State suspects

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – The Saudi Arabian Interior Ministry says authorities have arrested 18 suspects belonging to the Islamic State group, including bomb makers.

Maj. Gen. Mansour al-Turki, a ministry spokesman, said in a statement Thursday that the suspects, including Yemenis, were arrested in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina and two other cities.

He added that the suspects had different roles, including logistical operations and recruitment, as well as providing shelter and financial support to the militants.

Al-Turki said the suspects had experience in making explosives and suicide vests.

Saudi Arabia has been targeted by a number of deadly suicide bombings and other attacks claimed by the Islamic State group in recent years. The country is part of the U.S.-led coalition fighting the group in Iraq and Syria.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles