Norway's Dismissal of Mullah Krekar Case

Question:   What is your reaction to the dismissal of the Mullah Krekar case? Should he still be expelled? Is there any reason to believe that the witness was abused by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan or by U.S. military or civilian officials at any time?

Answer:   As we have stated previously, decisions on the Mullah Krekar case, as well as on the issue of his expulsion, are a matter for the Norwegian Authorities and Courts to decide.
 
We note a reported witness, interviewed in the case, alleged abuse while in detention. We have no independent confirmation of his allegation of abuse while under detention by Patriotic Union of Kurdistan forces. Any credible allegations of mistreatment by U.S. authorities would, of course, be investigated, and if evidence of criminal behavior were to be found, the responsible individuals would be held accountable.
 
The U.S. remains seriously concerned about Mullah Krekar's links to terrorism. He is the founder of Ansar al-Islam, a group that has conducted terrorist attacks in Iraq. We will continue our strong, close cooperation with the Government of Norway in combating terrorism around the globe.
 

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