Huge ETA attack thwarted

1 March 2004

CANAVERAS – A vehicle carrying more than half a ton of explosives, probably to be used by the Basque terrorist group ETA for an attack in Madrid, was seized Sunday by Spanish security forces.

Two people were arrested in the town of Canaveras, in Cuenca province, east of Madrid,  according to Spanish Interior Ministry officials.

Searches were underway Monday in several Basque towns based on information gleaned during the operation.

Although it was originally reported that the vehicle was carrying 200 kilos (441 pounds) of explosives, Civil Guard experts later told EFE the van was loaded with 506 kilos (1,115 pounds) of explosives.

The security forces evacuated residents living in the immediate area of the van and bomb experts deactivated the explosive charge, which was not detonated.

On several other occasions, security forces members have found explosive-laden vans heading for Madrid.

Discovery of the van occurred during the first weekend of campaigning for the 14 March  general elections.

ETA has killed more than 800 people since it began its terror campaign in 1959.

Recently, key arrests by the security services have led observers to believe the group was facing its most serious crisis.

[Copyright EFE with Expatica]

                               Subject: Spanish news