The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its probe into the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks by interrogating Tahawwur Rana, a key accused, for the first time on Indian soil. The focus of the questioning is on his alleged co-conspirators in Pakistan and his ties to David Coleman Headley, the Pakistani-American terrorist who helped plan the deadly assault.
According to senior officials familiar with the investigation, Rana is expected to be confronted with a “protected witness” who allegedly played a crucial role in facilitating Headley’s operations in India. This witness reportedly received Headley in Mumbai in 2006, arranged his stay, and provided logistical support—key aspects in establishing Rana’s involvement in the conspiracy.
Rana, who arrived in India following extradition proceedings, was remanded to 18 days of NIA custody by a special court in Delhi early Friday morning. He was taken to the agency’s headquarters on Lodhi Road around 2 AM and allowed to rest before questioning began later in the day.
This marks a major milestone in the investigation, as Indian agencies had previously only interviewed Headley, and that too in the U.S. in 2010. Now, with Rana in custody, investigators believe they are closer to piecing together the full extent of the conspiracy.
Officials said the identity of the protected witness is being strictly guarded, even in court documents, due to security threats from Pakistan-based actors and the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the terror outfit responsible for the 26/11 attacks.
“This witness was closely connected to both Headley and Rana. His testimony could be pivotal in proving Rana’s role,” said an official on condition of anonymity.
Rana’s interrogation is expected to continue over the coming days, with officials hoping to uncover critical details that could further expose the international terror network behind one of India’s deadliest attacks.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)