Local Congressman Inspects Gitmo Detention Operations

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick yesterday participated in an inspection of the detention operations, living conditions and medical facilities at Joint Task Force Guantanamo (GTMO) in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.  

According to a release, there are approximately 170 unlawful combatants currently held at GTMO, including terrorist trainers, terrorist financiers, bomb makers, terrorist recruiters and former Bin Laden bodyguards.  The unprivileged enemy belligerents have been captured by the United States while fighting for al-Qaida or the Taliban, neither of which abide by the laws of war.

“The United States Department of Defense has proven its commitment to ensuring that all detainees are kept in a safe, secure and humane environment and that the terms of treatment are to provide a safe, humane, legal and transparent custody of the unlawful combatants,” said Fitzpatrick following the conclusion of his inspection and interviews.

Fitzpatrick commented as well on the importance of the military installation in support of ongoing overseas operations against terrorism.

“JTF GTMO, through its military and government employees, provides an invaluable support to intelligence collection, law enforcement and war crimes investigations. These operations have recently assisted in the prevention of terrorist attacks, the apprehension of enemy combatants and the saving of American lives.  The information provided by detainees has proven critical to our defense and security and will continue to be so as we defeat violent extremists that threaten to do us harm.”