Algerian forces surrounded a group of 20 fighters from Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mali near Kenchele on Aug. 24, including several alleged senior al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb leaders. Wanted Ansar al Sharia leader Sami Essid was said to be among 13 arrested who were planning attacks and also escapes for other detained terrorists. Essid has also served as al Qaeda’s key operative in Italy.
