Twenty-three years after the 9/11 attacks, the FBI has reignited its search for a close associate of Usama bin Laden, Hamza Al Ghamdi, who is believed to possess crucial information about al Qaeda's operations.
On the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the FBI issued a plea to the public for information on the whereabouts of Hamza Al Ghamdi, a once-trusted member of Usama bin Laden's inner circle. Ghamdi, a Saudi Arabian national, played significant roles within al Qaeda and fought in conflict zones alongside bin Laden himself.
FBI Hunts for Al Qaeda Leader Hamza Al Ghamdi, Bin Laden's Trusted Associate
According to Tony Molloy, special agent in charge of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York, Ghamdi's involvement with al Qaeda dates back to the late 1990s and extends to violent Islamic extremist jihad in various conflict zones. He is wanted for questioning in connection with his membership in the terror network, where he served as bin Laden's bodyguard and held other key positions.
Molloy emphasized the historical relevance of Ghamdi's information, suggesting that he may possess vital knowledge about al Qaeda's operations and attacks globally over the past two decades. The FBI has evidence placing him in direct contact with senior al Qaeda leaders, including Ayman al-Zawahiri, who was killed in a US drone strike in Afghanistan last year.
FBI Hunts for Al Qaeda Leader Hamza Al Ghamdi, Bin Laden's Trusted Associate
Like bin Laden, Ghamdi fought against Soviet troops in Afghanistan in the 1980s. He also participated in terrorist attacks in Tajikistan in the early 1990s and operated an al Qaeda guesthouse in Kabul, Afghanistan. In 2001, he fought in the battle of Tora Bora, where US forces attempted to capture or kill bin Laden.
Despite the years that have passed, Ghamdi remains a fugitive, believed to be somewhere in Afghanistan near the border with Pakistan. The State Department has offered a $5 million reward for his capture. Molloy acknowledges the difficulty in locating him due to his tendency to operate in remote areas.
FBI Hunts for Al Qaeda Leader Hamza Al Ghamdi, Bin Laden's Trusted Associate
Ghamdi's affiliation with senior al Qaeda leaders makes him a valuable asset for law enforcement. His knowledge of the group's operations, including the planning and execution of terrorist attacks, could assist in preventing future threats.
23 years after the 9/11 attacks, the FBI remains dedicated to apprehending those involved in the tragedy. According to Christie M. Curtis, acting assistant director in charge of the FBI's New York City Field Office, the agency has not forgotten the victims and continues to pursue justice.
FBI Hunts for Al Qaeda Leader Hamza Al Ghamdi, Bin Laden's Trusted Associate
The FBI distinguishes between Ghamdi and the other Hamza al Ghamdi who was a terrorist on United Airlines Flight 175, which crashed into the World Trade Center on 9/11. The bureau maintains that capturing individuals like Ghamdi is crucial for the safety and security of both the United States and its allies around the world.
