French police reported Sunday the arrest of 18-21 people believed to be members of the Basque separatist group, ETA. ETA has waged a campaign of terror throughout the European Union, fighting for the creation of an sovereign Basque state in southern France and northern Spain. The terrorist group is believed to be responsible for over 800 deaths since 1968. Caught in the raid were two of the organization's leaders, Mikel Albizu Iriarte and Soledad Iparraguirre. Police also discovered a stockpile of weapons, including rocket launchers, munitions, assault rifles and explosives.
Quote:'Eta leaders' arrested in France
French police say they have arrested two of the most senior figures in the outlawed Basque separatist group, Eta.
Mikel Albizu, known as Antza, and his partner, Maria Soledad Iparraguirre, were among at least 18 people detained in a swoop in south-western France.
Spanish officials said the operation was possibly the most significant blow against Eta in years.
The BBC's Katya Adler in Madrid says Mr Albizu is thought to be one of the most senior political figures in Eta.
His partner, Maria Soledad Iparraguirre, is one of the group's leading female figures.
High-profile
The couple, both aged 43, had been on the run from Spanish justice for more than 10 years.
They were seized in the town of Pau, according to the Associated Press.
Their arrests were part of a series made in border villages along the French border where Eta militants have long sought refuge.
The suspects were captured in towns including Saint Pierre d'Irubek, Briscous, Ayherre and Hendaye, Spain's interior ministry said in a statement.
Spanish Interior Minister Jose Antonio Alonso says the raid is hugely important and an example of outstanding collaboration between the two countries.
Improved French and Spanish ties since the 11 September attacks have led to several high-profile Eta arrests, our correspondent says.
Spanish authorities now describe Eta as considerably weakened but still dangerous.
The armed group has been fighting for more than 30 years for an independent Basque state.
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