The United States has once again stressed its commitment to fighting global terrorism in partnership with India. This came after the US extradited Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India, where he will now face trial for his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
US Praises Extradition Move
During a press briefing, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that America has always backed India’s efforts to bring the perpetrators of the 26/11 attacks to justice. She expressed satisfaction over Rana’s extradition and said he is now under Indian custody.
Bruce said, “On April 9th, the United States extradited Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India to face justice for his role in planning the horrific 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks… These attacks resulted in the tragic loss of 166 lives, including six Americans, that shocked the entire world.”
She added, “The United States has long supported India’s efforts to ensure those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice, and as President Trump has said, the United States and India will continue to work together to combat the global scourge of terrorism. He is in their possession, and we are very proud of that dynamic.”
NIA’s Long Effort Pays Off
Earlier the same day, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced that it had finally secured Rana’s extradition after years of legal and diplomatic efforts. Rana had been in judicial custody in the US while legal procedures continued under the India-US Extradition Treaty. His return to India became possible only after he had exhausted all legal options to prevent it.
Rana Sent to NIA Custody
On Friday, a special NIA court granted the agency 18 days of custody to interrogate Rana. The NIA argued that questioning him was necessary to fully understand the planning and execution of the attacks.
According to the NIA, they have strong evidence against Rana, including emails he exchanged with others involved in the plot. These emails, investigators say, show his deep role in planning the 26/11 attacks. The agency believes Rana’s interrogation will help uncover more details of the conspiracy.
Link with Headley and Other Plotters
The NIA also pointed out that David Coleman Headley, already convicted for his part in the attacks, had shared complete information about the plan with Rana before traveling to India. In anticipation of possible trouble, Headley even sent an email to Rana listing his assets and personal items. He also kept Rana informed about the involvement of other key figures like Ilyas Kashmiri and Abdur Rehman in the plan.
