Radical Nigerian Muslim group claims attacks ? 2010 The Associated Press
Dec. 28, 2010, 6:03AM
JOS, Nigeria: A radical
Muslim sect has claimed responsibility for the
Christmas Eve
attacks in Nigeria that left at least 38 people dead.The Islamic group, formerly known as Boko Haram, said in a press release published on its
website that it was responsible for the multiple bombings in central Jos and two attacks
on churches in Maiduguri.
Boko Haram changed its name after a prison break earlier this year that freed more than 700
inmates. The group's new name translates as: "The organization of
followers of the teachings
of Prophet Muhammad and champions of Islam and holy wars."Nigerian authorities had blamed Boko Haram for the church attacks that killed six but had
not identified suspects in the bombings.
Bystanders gather around a burned car outside the Victory Baptist Church
in Maiduguri, Nigeria, Saturday, Dec. 25, 2010. Authorities say dozens of assailants attacked
the church on Christmas Eve, killing the pastor, two members of the choir and two people
passing by the church. Police are blaming members of Boko Haram, a radical Muslim sect.
(AP Photo - Njadvara Musa)http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/top/all/7356055.html