NIA Begins Interrogation of 26/11 Mastermind After Extradition from the US

NIA Takes Custody of Terror Plotter

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is set to commence questioning Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key figure in the 26/11 attacks, following his extradition from the United States. This interrogation is scheduled to begin on Friday.

The NIA took Rana into custody on Thursday evening, as directed by a Special Court in New Delhi.

Sources indicate that the questioning will likely start around 10 a.m. at the agency's headquarters.

During the interrogation, officials plan to probe Rana about the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, his connections with David Coleman Headley, and his alleged ties to Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI.

Additionally, it is anticipated that Rana will be asked about his time spent in India and the individuals he interacted with, potentially revealing further connections within the country.

Rana is expected to remain in NIA custody for a period of 18 days.

In a press release, the NIA stated, "The agency will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the full conspiracy behind the tragic 2008 attacks, which resulted in 166 fatalities and over 238 injuries."

The NIA successfully secured Rana's extradition after years of persistent efforts, following the failure of his attempts to block the extradition process in the US. He was transported to the national capital on a special flight from Los Angeles, accompanied by teams from the NSG and NIA.

Rana's extradition was finalized after multiple legal challenges, including an emergency application to the US Supreme Court, were dismissed.

The anti-terror agency credited the coordinated efforts of India's Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs, along with US authorities, for securing the surrender warrant and facilitating the extradition.

The NIA also acknowledged the significant support from various American institutions, highlighting collaboration with the FBI and the US Department of Justice throughout the extradition process.

This event represents a significant advancement in India's commitment to holding accountable those involved in terrorism, regardless of their location.