For years, the elusive Saudi terror leader had been effectively cut off from al-Qaida's operational command. His main task had been to evade capture and stay alive, while operations had been in the hands of his second-in-command, Iman Al Zawari, who has now pledged to avenge his death.

When and where the terror groups will strike in retaliation is unknown, but not unexpected. Indeed, the US has already closed its embassy in Islamabad and three other Pakistan-based consulates for fear of reprisals.

Success in keeping terrorist attackers at bay, reducing damage or preventing such attacks will depend heavily on the work and cooperation of intelligence agencies and law enforcers, across borders and between continents.

Bin Laden's body has been dumped in the sea. But beyond him being erased from the face of the earth, his death will not mean an end to his multinational network of independent disparate units in distant countries, each operating independently in pursuit of their own objectives.

Indeed, his end may very well mark a new beginning for his heirs and successors in the international terror syndicate and network.

The author is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.ccgp-fushun.com/opinion/node_7107878.htm

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