Mumbai – A significant development has emerged in the investigation of the horrific 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, with key accused Tahawwur Hussain Rana reportedly claiming complete dissociation from the deadly incident. During questioning by the Mumbai Crime Branch, Rana stated that he had no involvement in the 2008 attacks and instead placed the blame squarely on his childhood friend, David Coleman Headley.
According to sources, Rana asserted during the interrogation that he played no part in the conspiracy behind the attacks. This statement from a central figure in the alleged plot presents a fresh challenge for the investigating agencies.
Tahawwur Rana Also Visited Kerala:
During the interrogation, Tahawwur Rana also admitted to visiting Kerala, in addition to Delhi and Mumbai. When questioned by authorities about the reason for his visit, Rana claimed he went to Kerala to meet acquaintances. He reportedly provided the names and addresses of these individuals to the investigating agencies. Sources suggest that a team from the Mumbai Crime Branch may soon travel to Kerala to verify the information provided by Rana.
Rana Appeared Calm During Questioning:
An official involved in the interrogation described Tahawwur Rana as a highly trained criminal. Despite his age, he reportedly answered questions without showing any nervousness and even attempted to mislead the investigators on several occasions. Furthermore, during prayer times, Rana would request a 15-minute break to offer Namaz and asked not to be disturbed. Rana’s demeanor reportedly suggests his mental fortitude and training to the investigating agencies.
How Tahawwur Rana Was Brought to India from the US:
The extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 attacks, from the United States to India was a complex process. Rana made numerous legal attempts in the US to avoid extradition, even filing an emergency petition with the US Supreme Court. However, after all his appeals were rejected, his extradition to India became possible. Teams from the NIA (National Investigation Agency) and NSG (National Security Guard) jointly brought him to India from Los Angeles via a special aircraft. India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs played a crucial role in this entire process, collaborating with US agencies. The NIA had been coordinating with the US FBI and Department of Justice for several years to secure Rana’s extradition.
The 26/11 Attacks: A Tragedy that Shook the World:
The 26/11 attacks, which took place on November 26, 2008, saw ten terrorists target prominent locations in Mumbai, including the Taj Hotel, Oberoi Trident, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Nariman House. The horrific attacks resulted in the deaths of 166 people and left hundreds injured, sending shockwaves across the globe. Indian investigative agencies allege that Tahawwur Rana collaborated with the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba in planning these attacks.
