BRIEF: al-Qaeda Leader In Spain Faces New Charges

MADRID, Spain - The convicted leader of al-qaeda in Spain has been charged in a new case on suspicion of financing terrorist cells.  Imad Eddin Barakat Yarkas, 44, was sentenced to imprisonment in 2005 for leadership of an al-Qaeda group in Spain.  Along with two other men, he stands of accused of financing terrorist operations. 

CNN reports that he was arraigned on April 24 and denied the charges.  Although he only faces additional prison time, this trial is important because it ties up loose ends concerning al Qaeda's involvement in Spain.  The successful prosecution of these cells hinders al-Qaeda's ability to target innocent civilians.

For more information, please see:

CNN - Funding charges for Spain's al-Qaeda chief - 28 April 2008