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Abu Layth al-Libi

Al-Qaeda Terrorist Operations Planner

Dead

Abu Layth al-LibiAbu Layth al-LibiAbu Layth al-Libi

Details
ImportanceHigh
Means of DeathCIA Predator drone missile strike
Date of DeathJan. 29, 20083
Location of DeathKhushali Torikel, North Waziristan, Pakistan3
AffiliationAl-Qaeda
RoleTerrorist Operations Planner
AffiliationLibyan Islamic Fighting Group2
AffiliationTaliban2
NationalityLibyan1
Alternate Spelling(s)Abu Laith al Liby, Abu Laith al-Libi
Rough Age at Death41
Date of Birth19671
Place of BirthLibya1
Height6'4'1
GenderMale
DescriptionHair: Black; Eyes: Brown; Complexion: Dark Tan; large build. Speaks Arabic with Maghreb/North African dialect.1
Injuries/IllnessScars on back as if beaten by a belt or wire.1
 
 
Narrative and Notes
 
Reliable
  • Senior operational commander and expert in guerilla warfare. Commanding some operations in Afghanistan as of 2007.
  • Killed at a safe house in Pakistan, apparently by a CIA Predator drone.1,3
    •  
    Possible
  • Some debate to the exact nature of his association with al-Qaeda -- whether he's a sworn operative or an ally.
  • Allegedly tortured while in captivity of a Middle Eastern Country.
  • Reportedly tied to Feb. 27, 2007, bombing at Bagram, Afghanistan near U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney.2,3
    •  
     
    Sources
    1 DIA Terrorist Recognition Card, viewed 12 Sept 2007.
    2 'Al-Qaeda's New Leadership.' The Washington Post: 2006.
    3 Schmitt, Eric. 'Senior Qaeda Commander Is Killed by U.S. missile.' The New York Times: Feb. 1, 2008.
    Photos (left to right): DIA; DIA; DIA
     
     
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