Free Republic

An Islamic terrorist cell was poised to launch biological or chemical attacks in France and possibly Britain last year, say French police. They were ready to use the deadly toxins ricin and botulism. French magistrates were expected last night to launch an official investigation into six suspects, five of whom were arrested last week in the Lyon area. Information from the group confirmed that an attack was "on the verge of being launched" last year. Investigators are examining if there is a link between the findings and a small amount of ricin seized in Britain last January, he said. France's...

Father of Guantanamo Bay Detainee Held Tuesday January 6, 2004 11:46 PM By JEAN-BAPTISTE LABEUR Associated Press Writer LYON, France (AP) - An Islamic cleric whose son is being held at the U.S. prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba was among seven people detained by French security agents Tuesday as part of an investigation into suspected terror networks. The imam, Chellali Benchellali, was arrested at his home in the tough Minguettes high-rise neighborhood of Venissieux, a suburb of the southeastern city of Lyon, said a lawyer for the family. Attorney Jacques Debray said the imam's wife and one of his sons,...