Thaindian News

June 28, 2010 (Pen Men at Work): The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief, Leon Panetta has reported that terrorist leader Osama bin Laden has taken shelter in the rocky tribal areas of Pakistan. In addition, Panetta has claimed that the terrorist group al-Qaida is possibly now at its weakest time. He assumed that they are left with only 60-100 militants in Afghanistan since 9/11 attack.

In an interview, CIA director Leon Panetta informed, “According to my estimation, the number of the al-Qaida militants in Afghanistan is comparatively small. The number may be 60 to 100 or even less. It is sure that the tribal area of Pakistan is the main location of them.”

He confirmed that the group’s leader Laden is hiding deep in the tribal areas. He said, “He is hiding in deep areas, which are very difficult to reach. But one thing is sure that Bin Laden will be having high security around him.”

Panetta added, “As a result of our operations, the Taliban (al-Qaida) has reached its weakest position after they escaped into Pakistan from Afghanistan following the 9/11 attack.”

However, we will continue to disrupt the operations of al-Qaida. Now, we are conducting the most aggressive operations in the CIA history. As a result, we have been able to disrupt their leadership. Panetta said that they have been able to cut down the numbers of their militants by disrupting them.

Panetta further said that we will continue to have an impact on their command-and- control. The NATO forces will cut down their capability of planning attacks in this country. With the pressure being mounted continuously, we can wash out Laden and Ayman-al-Zawahiri from here, said Panetta.