Hijackers Entered U.S. Legally

WASHINGTON – All 19 Sept. 11 hijackers entered the United States with valid visas but three had lost their legal status by the time of the attacks, the Justice Department said Thursday.

The majority of the attackers, 15, were from Saudi Arabia while two came from the United Arab Emirates, one was an Egyptian and another was Lebanese.

Only two of the hijackers entered the United States last year, in January and December. The majority, 14, were admitted in May and June this year.

Their visas were granted for either pleasure trips, business or education.