The capture of Saddam Hussein (2003) | 60 Minutes Archive
60 Minutes・2 minutes read
Colonel James Hickey led the successful capture of Saddam Hussein after conducting hundreds of raids focused on key families in Saddam's hometown, with Saddam eventually being betrayed by a member of his security team and found in a small hole under an Orange Grove. The mission to capture other fugitives is ongoing, with only 14 of the original 55 most wanted still at large despite Saddam's capture.
Insights
- Colonel James Hickey orchestrated the successful capture of Saddam Hussein through meticulous planning and executing over 500 raids, ultimately leading to the discovery of Saddam in a humble one-room shack in an Orange Grove.
- The pivotal role of betrayal by a member of Saddam's security team in revealing his location showcases the intricate human dynamics at play in high-stakes military operations, emphasizing the critical role of intelligence and insider information in achieving mission objectives.
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Recent questions
How was Saddam Hussein captured?
Betrayed by a member of his security team.
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Summary
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"Colonel Hickey captures Saddam Hussein in Iraq"
- Colonel James Hickey led the capture of Saddam Hussein after launching 12 raids with 600 soldiers and various military equipment.
- Saddam was found in a one-room shack in an Orange Grove, living in squalor with basic items like instant coffee, tuna, and beans.
- Hickey's team conducted over 500 raids, focusing on five key families in Saddam's hometown to track him down.
- A member of Saddam's security team betrayed him, revealing his hideout, leading to his capture under cover of darkness.
- Saddam was found in a small hole under an Orange Grove, where he surrendered and was flown to Baghdad.
- Despite the capture, the mission to capture other fugitives continues, with only 14 of the original 55 most wanted still at large.
