Atlanta, GA, April 27, 2007…The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today congratulated the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose coordinated efforts led to what ADL experts called "one of the largest weapons seizures in the South in years."
 
During a raid on four locations in Collinsville, Alabama, federal Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents and Alabama authorities arrested six men, and seized 130 hand grenades, a grenade launcher, automatic weapons, 2,500 rounds of ammunition, 100 marijuana plants, and more, according to official reports.  One of the locations where weapons were found was within a quarter of a mile of a Collinsville school.

Authorities said the men called themselves members of the "Alabama Free Militia," who apparently "have a beef with the government," according to Alabama U.S. Attorney Alice Martin.
 
"The arrests and the seizure of such an enormous arsenal are a compelling reminder that extremist groups continue to operate in otherwise peaceful communities filled with law abiding citizens," said Bill Nigut, ADL Southeast Regional Director.  "It also reminds us why ADL's ongoing commitment to identifying and monitoring such groups must continue to be a high priority," Mr. Nigut said.
 
Mr. Nigut also praised the swiftness of the investigation which only began several weeks ago.  Similar investigations have often lasted months or years.
 
"We congratulate ATF agents, led by regional chief Jim Cavanaugh, Alabama state law enforcement agents and the local authorities who worked together on this successful raid," Mr. Nigut added.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.