Iraq Smashes Al Qaeda 'Poison Gas Cell'

[Jazzy]

Authorities in Iraq say they have uncovered an al Qaeda cell working to produce poison gas at two locations in Baghdad for future attacks both home and abroad.

Mohamed al Askari, spokesman for Iraq's defence ministry, said five suspects had been detained over the construction of two facilities in the capital to produce sarin and mustard gas, using instructions from another al Qaeda group.

Four hooded suspects - three in bright yellow jumpsuits and one in a brown one - were presented at a news conference on Saturday which included a table display of beakers and jars of chemical compounds.

A pair of soldiers wearing gas masks and gloves brought out containers containing alleged chemical ingredients.

The members of the cell were prepared to launch attacks domestically, and also had a network to smuggle the toxins to neighbouring countries, and also to Europe and North America, said Mr Al Askari.

He said the group had managed to acquire some raw materials and formulas, but they had not produced any active chemical weapons. It was unclear how far along they were in their efforts.

The arrests follow a joint operation between Iraqi and foreign intelligence services.

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Wonder how many more cells there are no one knows about.