Mastermind of Mumbai Attacks, Tahawwur Rana, May Be Brought to India Today. Security Tightened in Delhi and Mumbai Jails; Handing Over to NIA in Preparation.
New Delhi – Tahawwur Rana, the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and a Lashkar-e-Taiba operative, may be brought to India today (Wednesday). Security is on high alert in Delhi and Mumbai jails in anticipation of his return. According to reports, Rana will be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) immediately upon his arrival in India for interrogation.
Lashkar-e-Taiba and David Headley Connections
Tahawwur Rana is a Pakistani-origin Canadian citizen. He was a close associate of David Coleman Headley, a key plotter in the 26/11 attacks. Rana assisted Headley in entering India and conducting reconnaissance in Mumbai. He also had b ties to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Case in the US Concludes, Paving the Way for Return to India
Rana repeatedly appealed in US courts to prevent his extradition, but all his petitions were ultimately rejected. He is currently incarcerated in a Los Angeles detention center, where he was convicted in 2011 and sentenced to 13 years.
Green Light Received During Trump's Presidency
During Prime Minister Modi's visit to the United States, then-President Donald Trump approved Rana's extradition. The Indian government has been trying to bring Rana back since 2019. The entire process is being overseen by NSA Ajit Doval and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Trip to Mumbai Before the Attacks
Documents presented in the US court indicate that Rana conducted reconnaissance in Mumbai, staying at the Renaissance Hotel in Powai from November 11 to 21, 2008. Just five days after his departure, the devastating terrorist attack occurred on November 26.
The investigation also revealed that Rana requested Pakistan to grant posthumous military honors to the terrorists killed in the Mumbai attacks.
26/11 Attacks: 166 Dead, Over 300 Injured
Ten terrorists arrived by sea during the horrific Mumbai attacks. The attack resulted in the deaths of 166 people, including 18 security personnel, and injured over 300. Ajmal Kasab was the only terrorist captured alive.
