Three Muslims Arrested in Florida Released

Three Muslims arrested in Florida have been released. On September 13, 2002, police in southern Florida closed a major highway and stopped two vehicles, arresting their three occupants. The police had previously received reports from a waitress in neighboring Georgia about a potential terrorist attack. Police dogs trained to detect explosives were deployed during the operation. Reports indicate that a package was removed from one of the vehicles, which police may have later detonated. The three American Muslim men, who were arrested following a confidential report, stated that they never discussed any conspiracy for a terrorist attack. They told CNN that a woman who claimed to have heard them discussing a terrorist plot was completely lying. All three men claimed they were treated unjustly. The police arrested them after their vehicle passed through a toll booth without paying. After the police dogs alerted to the presence of suspicious materials, Florida police closed the major highway. No dangerous items were found, and the three men were released.