Two men who were sought in connection with alleged unusual activity on Washington State Ferries last summer have been identified by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as European Union citizens, reported KIRO 7 Eyewitness News.
The men sparked the interest of authorities after numerous passengers and ferry employees reported the men behaving strangely while on the ferries.
In a controversial move in August, the FBI published photos of the men that were taken by ferry workers even though the men were not accused of committing any crimes.
Laura Laughlin with the Seattle division of the FBI said Monday that the two men were European business consultants.
A news release by the FBI said the men came forward to clear their names and stated that they were fearful of arrest if they traveled to the United States.
They provided embassy officials with documentation to establish their identities, employment and the reason for their U.S. travel last summer.
The men stated they were in Seattle for business in July 2007 and took a ferry ride during that time.
A follow-up investigation verified that the men were in the area for legitimate reasons.
The identities of the men are being withheld to protect their privacy.
Last summer, the FBI said it was unusual to seek the public’s help in identifying anyone who has not committed a crime , but with heightened concerns since the Sept. 11 attacks, they wanted to ensure the ferries remained safe.
Previous Stories: August 21, 2007: FBI Investigating Unusual Ferry Passengers
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