US forces capture Benghazi attack suspect in Libya

The United States forces have captured a suspect in the 2012 attacks in Benghazi city of Libya that left four Americans dead.

"Yesterday, on my orders, United States forces captured Mustafa al-Imam in Libya. Because of this successful operation, al-Imam will face justice in the United States for his alleged role in the September 11, 2012 attacks in Benghazi," the U.S. President Donald Trump said in a written statement.

The attack on the U.S. mission in Benghazi led to the deaths of four Americans, including U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and State Department official Sean Smith. Two CIA contractors - Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty - were both killed in a neighboring CIA annex.

 

"I want to thank our law enforcement, prosecutors, intelligence community and military personnel for their extraordinary efforts in capturing and delivering them (attackers) to the U.S. for prosecution," Trump said.

Sending his condolences to the families of the victims, Trump said that the U.S. will continue to support Libya to ensure that the terrorist groups do not use the country as a safe haven for attacks against U.S. citizens, interests and Libyans.

"Libya's long-term stability and security are linked to its ability to form a unified government and military, and we encourage all Libyans to support the ongoing reconciliation process facilitated by the United Nations and to work together to build a peaceful and stable country," Trump added.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson praised the operation, saying, "I am deeply grateful to the U.S. military: law enforcement, and intelligence community for their efforts to bring to justice the perpetrators of the September 11, 2012 terrorist attacks on U.S. diplomatic facilities in Benghazi, Libya."

Tillerson further said that the Department of State family continues to mourn the loss of Ambassador Chris Stevens, Glen Doherty, Sean Smith, and Tyrone Woods.

"We will spare no effort to ensure that justice is served for these dedicated Americans and public servants, he said, adding, "I spoke with some of their family members to underscore the U.S. government's unwavering support," the State Secretary added.