RIYADH, 22 July 2004 — Security officers injured in Tuesday’s shootout in Riyadh, which resulted in the killing of two terrorists and the arrest of several others, pledged to continue their hunt for terrorists as soon as they recover and return to duty.
Private First Class Hamdan Al-Mutairi from the Special Forces squad said he was admitted to hospital for respiratory problem after inhaling smoke from tube bombs thrown at them by the terrorists.
“We will not be shaken by what these people were doing. Every security officer knows his duty well, which is serving their religion and leader,” he said.
Al-Mutairi estimated the number of militants who attacked them to be between 10-11 armed men.
An officer, Lt. Ayedh Al-Otaibi, who was injured in the leg, said the terrorists opened fire first and began shooting randomly at the security officers. His father, who was standing beside the hospital bed, said he was proud of his son and added that Ayedh had done his duty.
Ayedh called on the terrorists to take advantage of the royal pardon and surrender before it was too late.
Staff Sgt. Abdul Rahman Al-Otaibi, who sustained multiple injuries in the exchange of fire, said the terrorists were driving a double-cabin truck.
Speaking from hospital where he is receiving treatment, Abdul Rahman couldn’t determine their number but said there were many in the vehicle.
A soldier who said he was injured in a car accident while on his way to the scene of the shooting suffered fractures in both arms and sustained head injuries.
Sgt. Salim Al-Yami said they were all deeply moved by the visit paid to them in hospital by Deputy Governor of Riyadh Prince Sattam. The visit and the kind words they heard form the prince made them more resolved to fulfill their duty.
