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Friday, Mar 15, 2013 5:15 PM UTC

Head of US Africa command warns of Islamic threat

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Topics: From the Wires, ,

WASHINGTON (AP) — The chief of the U.S. Africa Command says failure to address the threats from Islamic extremists in Africa now could mean greater danger to U.S. interests in the future.

Gen. Carter Ham told the House Armed Services Committee on Friday that he was increasingly concerned about the collaboration between the Nigerian-based radical sect Boko Haram (BOH’-koh hah-RAHM’) and al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb, which bases its operations in Mali.

Ham said Boko Haram is blamed for guerrilla attacks against Nigeria’s government and aspires to be a greater threat in Europe and possibly the United States.

Ham said it was crucial for the U.S. in partnership with Nigeria to stop the group before its capabilities match its intent.

More By Donna Cassata.

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