After nearly a decade and a half, federal authorities have captured and extradited another suspect in the deadly 2012 Benghazi terrorist attack that killed four Americans, including Ambassador Chris Stevens.

Major Arrest in Benghazi Case

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Friday that Zubayr al-Bakoush arrived at Andrews Air Force Base at 3:00 a.m. following his capture and extradition. Standing alongside FBI Director Kash Patel and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, Bondi confirmed the suspect faces multiple serious charges. Al-Bakoush was first charged by complaint in 2015, but the charges remained sealed for eleven years until now.

The eight-count indictment charges al-Bakoush with murdering Ambassador Chris Stevens and State Department employee Sean Smith. Additional charges include attempted murder of State Department Special Agent Scott Wicklund, conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, and arson at the diplomatic facility. The September 11, 2012 attack saw armed militants storm the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, resulting in four American deaths.

Legal Proceedings Begin

Al-Bakoush appeared before a federal magistrate judge Friday, represented by a temporary attorney while permanent counsel is assigned. Federal prosecutors announced they will seek pretrial detention, with a detention hearing scheduled for next week. The suspect’s arraignment has been deferred until permanent legal representation is established. This marks the first arrest connected to the Benghazi attack in nearly nine years.

Justice Long Delayed

This arrest represents continued efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the Benghazi tragedy. In 2017, authorities captured Mustafa al-Imam, another suspect in the attack, who was subsequently convicted and sentenced to 19 years in federal prison. The latest capture demonstrates the Justice Department’s persistence in pursuing justice for the fallen Americans, even as investigations span multiple years and administrations. The case remains a significant reminder of the dangers faced by American diplomatic personnel serving overseas.