2 suspects killed, 7 arrested in operation to capture mastermind of 11/13 terrorist attack

(Baonghean.vn) – Early morning on November 18 (French time), French police confirmed that they were conducting a manhunt for Abdelhmid Abaaout – one of the terrorists who led the attack on the evening of November 13.

Anti-terrorist police and RAID have surrounded and sealed off an apartment in the central area of ​​Saint-Denis (Seine-Saint-Denis) – where Abdelhmid Abaaout is believed to be hiding. A 500-meter security perimeter has been established around Corbillon and Fontaine streets.

A security perimeter has been set up in the area where the raid took place. Photo: Le Monde

Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and explosions during the hours-long manhunt. Helicopters were also deployed to hunt for the fugitives. The army sent two units with nearly 100 soldiers to help in Saint-Denis.

.

A clip filmed by a local resident clearly records many gunshots and explosions early in the morning of November 18. Source: Le Monde

Police cars block off République Street in Saint Denis. Photo: Reuters

According to Le Monde, the police killed two suspects and arrested five others. Among those killed was a woman who committed suicide by detonating a bomb she was carrying when the police entered the besieged apartment, killing herself and another suspect.

Three suspects who were also present at the apartment were arrested on the spot. Another male and female suspect were arrested near the apartment. The identities of the deceased and those arrested have not been released.

At the end of the operation, French police said a total of 2 suspects were killed and 7 were arrested. Of those arrested, 3 were identified as terrorists, while the remaining 4 were considered suspects.

It is known that 5 police officers were slightly injured and 1 police dog of the RAID special force was shot dead by the raiders.

Anti-terrorist police and RAID forces were present in Saint Denis early on November 18. Photo: Reuters

The mayor of Saint-Denis has announced the closure of schools in the city centre. Metro services through Saint-Denis are suspended.

Anti-terrorism police issued a notice asking people to stay indoors.

President Hollande, Prime Minister Manuel Valls, Interior Minister Bernard Czeneuves and Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian met at the Elysées Palace after the operation.

Chu Thanh

(According to Le Monde)