The National Investigation Agency (NIA) informed a Delhi court that Tahawwur Rana, accused in the Mumbai attacks, might have crucial insights into present and future terror strategies of Lashkar-e-Taiba and its chief, Hafiz Saeed. The agency revealed this while requesting Rana's custody before Special NIA Judge Chandrjeet Singh on April 28.
Custody Request by NIA
According to PTI, NIA stated, 'Hafiz Saeed is indicted in this case and his terror organization, Lashkar-e-Taiba, continues to engage in terrorist activities within India. To uncover details of their operations, Rana's custody is essential.'
NIA maintained their interrogation of Rana, taking his health into account, although Rana alleged he undergoes 20-hour long questioning sessions daily. Due to claims of non-cooperation from Rana, NIA sought his custody.
'NIA Conducting Serious Investigations'
The court observed that NIA appears to be conducting the investigation with "seriousness." On April 28, the court extended Rana's NIA custody for 12 more days. He was presented in the court with his face covered under tight security.
Rana Brought to India
Tahawwur Hussain Rana was extradited to India, known as the close accomplice of David Coleman Headley (aka Daood Gilani), the mastermind of 26/11 attacks. As an American citizen, his petition against extradition to India was dismissed by the U.S. Supreme Court on April 4.
On November 26, 2008, a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists infiltrated Mumbai via sea, targeting a railway station, two luxury hotels, and a Jewish center. These attacks lasted nearly 60 hours, resulting in the death of 166 individuals.
The notorious attacks on Mumbai shocked the world, highlighting the brutal extent of terror threats India continues to combat. NIA's meticulous approach aims to uncover valuable information that could thwart future plots, providing a safer environment for the Indian populace and beyond.
