By Mark Wozniak and Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – Law enforcement officials still have not issued an official confirmation or denial of widespread reports that a seventh man associated with the Lackawanna Six has been taken into custody in Yemen.
Unidentified sources tell the Buffalo News that the story of the apprehension of Jaber Elbaneh is likely true. Elbaneh's uncle, local Muslim advocate Mohamed Albanna, says he's been in touch with family members in Yemen, who are also waiting to learn if the story is true.
"Hopefully, within a few days, they'll know for sure," Albanna said. "But they haven't talked to him or seen him at all."
US Attorney Michael Battle says he would expect Yemen to cooperate with extradition if the arrest has been made.
"I would hope that if they had someone in custody who was wanted for violating US law that they would make every effort to assist us in having that person brought to justice in the United States," Battle said.
A $5 million reward for his capture has been offered by the federal government.