FRANCE: One of the most wanted men in the ETA Basque separatist group was arrested in France yesterday.
Mikel Antxa, believed to be number one in the terrorist organisation, and his partner Soledad Iparagirre, were detained along with another 20 terrorist suspects in a series of raids in south-west France and northern Spain.
Mikel Antxa took over the political wing of ETA 12 years ago, following another major round-up in Bidart when police raided a house and found files and information which led to the dismantling of the then ETA leadership.
Spain is unlikely to ask for his extradition because although he is alleged to have been behind many of ETA's bloodiest attacks, he is not believed to have taken part in any of them.
His partner, also known as Anboto, is believed to have been responsible for running extortion rackets against Basque businesses, known as revolutionary taxes, through which ETA traditionally raises funds.
Spain is expected to ask for her extradition since she is alleged to have been responsible for some 15 killings before she went into hiding in France.
Yesterday's police operation, which is still continuing, has also uncovered seven arms and ammunition dumps, including heavy armaments and a large quantity of Titadyne explosive similar to an explosive stolen from a mining complex near Grenoble two years ago.
The names of the other terrorist suspects arrested in the operation have not been released but officials are optimistic that this is one of the most important blows against the Basque terrorists.