India and Germany ink cultural accord, push UN reforms

NEW DELHI – India and Germany Monday imparted fresh momentum to their joint efforts for expansion of the UN Security Council and discussed ways to deepen counter-terror cooperation.

External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna held talks with his German counterpart Guido Westerwelle that focused on UN reforms, enhanced counter-terror cooperation, climate change and the intensification …. Source article  : India and Germany ink cultural accord, push UN reforms.

Two Maoists arrested after gunfight in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Two Maoist guerrillas were arrested after a gunbattle in Jharkhand’s Palamau district Monday, police said.

The gun battle between police and Jharkhand Prastuti Committee (JPC), a Maoist front, took place near Chaudhasa village in Palamau, around 180 km from Ranchi.
JPC leader Girivar Chaudhary and another Maoist rebel, Vijay, were arrested. Two … Original article on : Two Maoists arrested after gunfight in Jharkhand.

Bomb explosions rock Iraq

BAGHDAD – A series of bomb explosions followed by gunfire rocked this Iraqi capital Sunday, an official said.

At least six bomb explosions went off successively at about 2 p.m. (1100 GMT) in Baghdad’s western neighbourhood of Mansour where sporadic heavy gunfire was heard, Xinhua reported.
An Iraqi interior ministry source confirmed the attacks but … Read more »»».

Two Taliban commanders killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – Two Taliban commanders were killed during an operation by security forces against the militants in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province, Xinhua reported.

“The operation covered two villages in Jalai district Saturday during which two commanders of insurgents were killed,” an official statement said.
Taliban militants have yet to comment.
Kandahar has been the scene …. Read the original article  : Two Taliban commanders killed in Afghanistan.

‘Taliban cannot be defeated militarily’

MELBOURNE – A top Australian combat soldier in Afghanistan has warned that the Taliban militants cannot be defeated by military means and called for a fundamental change in strategy, a media report said Sunday.

Brigadier Mark Smethurst says securing Afghanistan could take decades, but success is uncertain without a fundamental change in strategy, The Age …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Taliban cannot be defeated militarily’.

Taliban trainer of suicide bombers still alive

ISLAMABAD – The master trainer of suicide bombers and a key Taliban commander, Qari Hussain Mehsud, survived last week’s drone attack that killed five suspected terrorists in Pakistan’s northwest.

Qari was believed to have been killed in the attack. But reports from the restive South Waziristan, bordering the Afghan border, suggest he is still alive. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Taliban trainer of suicide bombers still alive.

Another Headley wife warned of his terror links

WASHINGTON – Less than a year before the November 2008 Mumbai terror mayhem, a second wife of David Coleman Headley warned US officials in Pakistan that she believed her husband was plotting an attack, but she appeared not to have been taken seriously, the New York Times said.

Headley’s wife, a young Moroccan woman, had …. Read the original article  : Another Headley wife warned of his terror links.

Kashmir guerrilla holed up in mosque dies

SRINAGAR – The stand off between security forces and an guerrilla holed up in a mosque in the Kashmir Valley ended Tuesday morning after the gunman succumbed to injuries, police said.

The security forces removed the cordon around the mosque in Dabban village in Bandipora district after the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) member died.
The mosque …. Source article  : Kashmir guerrilla holed up in mosque dies.

Pakistan’s ISI involved in Mumbai terror attack

LONDON – Pakistan’s Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) was heavily involved in the 2008 Mumbai attack and the spy agency held a string of meetings with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives over the operation that killed over 160 people, classified documents reveal.

Basing its exhaustive story on classified Indian government documents, the Guardian reported that the Pakistani … Read : Pakistan’s ISI involved in Mumbai terror attack.

Maoist squad leader held in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A Maoist squad leader has been arrested from West Midnapore district of West Bengal, police said Tuesday.

According to police, the Maoist leader was arrested Monday night. He was presented before a local court Tuesday morning.
“Subhas Modi, a close aide of Sashadhar Mahato, and his wife Suchitra Mahato are top ultra Left [..] Read the original article: here.

Three dead as militants attack Chechen parliament

Grozny, Oct 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least three people died and 13 were injured Tuesday morning when militants attacked parliament of Russias republic of Chechnya, authorities said.

A vehicle carrying terrorists drove in with cars carrying lawmakers. One of them blew himself up and the other two headed toward parliament, a police source told RIA [..] Read the original article: here.

Pakistan court given Times Square bomber’s friends list

ISLAMABAD – A list of friends of Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American who attempted to bomb Times Square in New York in May, has been submitted to a court in Pakistan’s Rawalpindi city.

Police informed the Anti-Terrorist Court (ATC) of Judge Malik Muhammad Akram Awan that those named in the list are members of the Tehrik-e-Taliban … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan court given Times Square bomber’s friends list.

Four convicted in New York’s synagogue-bombing plot

WASHINGTON – Four men have been convicted for planting bombs outside synagogues and plotting missile attacks on military planes in New York, a media report said.

A jury of six women and five men in Federal District Court in Manhattan deliberated for eight days. They were convicted Monday, New York Times reported on its website. …. Source article  : Four convicted in New York’s synagogue-bombing plot.

Hardline Hurriyat leader may be shifted to Jammu jail

JAMMU – Hurriyat Conference leader Masarat Alam is likely to be shifted to Jammu where several other separatist leaders are lodged, an official said Tuesday, a day after the general secretary of the Geelani-led hardline group was arrested in Srinagar.

Alam — considered close to Syed Ali Geelani, chief of the hardline faction of the …. Source article  : Hardline Hurriyat leader may be shifted to Jammu jail.

US denies Headley wives’ warnings ignored

WASHINGTON – The United States has admitted that one of the wives of David Headley twice warned the US embassy in Pakistan about her husband’s terrorist links, but denied the warnings were ignored. It said there was no “specific information” in those warnings.

There was nothing specific to follow up on in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US denies Headley wives’ warnings ignored.

Maoists set road construction vehicles ablaze

RAIPUR – Dozens of armed Maoists set afire vehicles engaged in road construction in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region Monday, officials said.

The vehicles, mainly ‘tippers’, were engaged in work on national highway 221 in Dantewada district, over 400 km south of state capital Raipur.
“Maoists stopped the road construction work near Kukanar area and … Read more : Maoists set road construction vehicles ablaze.

Kashmir mosque siege on as militant refuses to give up

SRINAGAR – The standoff between an injured guerrilla hiding in a mosque in Kashmir’s Bandipora district and the security forces continued Monday evening as a village cleric and elders failed to persuade the militant to surrender.

“The injured militant lobbed a grenade at the surrounding security men who did not retaliate in deference to the … Read more »».

Pakistan denies presence of bin Laden

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Monday rejected US media reports that Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden and his deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, were hiding in its northwestern region near the Afghan border.

“Stories like this keep on surfacing. Our reaction from day one to such stories is clear – he is not here,” deputy information minister Samsam …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan denies presence of bin Laden.

Bin Laden, deputy hiding in Pakistan, says NATO official

WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden and his deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri are believed to be hiding close to each other in houses in northwest Pakistan. But they are not together, according to multiple media reports citing a NATO official.

“Nobody in Al Qaeda is living in a cave,” an unnamed senior NATO …. Original article  : Bin Laden, deputy hiding in Pakistan, says NATO official.

Chandra Levy Trial Today

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The much awaited murder trial of Federal Bureau of Prisons intern Chandra Levy will begin today. The intern suddenly disappeared on 2001 and after searching frantically, the police discovered the skeletal remains of her body in Rock Creek Park in May 2002. Previously Congressman Gary Condit was suspected for the murder, however, … Read : Chandra Levy Trial Today.

Chandra Levy Death Case: Trial Begins Monday

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — The trial of the man, charged with the murder of Washington intern Chandra Levy, begins today. The Jury selection board starts querying the convict after nine years of disappearance of Levy.
The accused is Ingmar Guandique, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. He is convicted with the charge of rape attempt, kidnapping …. Source  : Chandra Levy Death Case: Trial Begins Monday.

Taliban warn of terror attack in the Netherlands

AMSTERDAM – The Taliban have warned of a possible terrorist attack against the Netherlands in the wake of the government’s decision to form a minority government backed by anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders, a press report Monday said.

“If the Netherlands enforce its anti-Islamic policies, it will ensure that they will be the target of an …. Read the original article  : here.

Babbar Khalsa terrorist escapes from Punjab police custody

HOSHIARPUR – A Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist, who was planning a major blast in Punjab, escaped from the custody of Punjab police here early Monday.

Police officials here confirmed that BKI terrorist Karanbir Singh escaped from the custody of the CIA (crime investigation agency) staff building here early in the morning.
Police officials …. Source article  : Babbar Khalsa terrorist escapes from Punjab police custody.

Literacy rate up in Maoist stronghold of Dantewada

RAIPUR – Dantewada, labelled as India’s worst Maoist violence-hit district, has recorded a 20 percent rise in literacy rate in the last nine years, the Chhattisgarh government said Monday claiming credit for the development.

The literacy rate in Dantewada district was 24.56 percent in 2001, but has gone up to 45.19 percent with an increase … Original article on : Literacy rate up in Maoist stronghold of Dantewada.

Anita Hill asked to Apologize by Wife of Clarence Thomas

Virginia Thomas, the wife of US Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has asked Anita Hill to apologize for her allegation of sexual harassment against her husband.
Justice Thomas was accused of sexual harassment during his confirmation hearings in 1991. Thomas denied the allegations and was confirmed.
Ms Thomas said on Tuesday that she left a voicemail …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Anita Hill asked to Apologize by Wife of Clarence Thomas.

European Union to open anti-terror centre in Bangladesh

DHAKA – The European Union (EU) will set up a counter-terrorism centre in Bangladesh in order to provide special training to police and other law enforcement officials across South Asia on how to combat terrorism.

Ambassador of EU Delegation to Bangladesh, Stefan Frowein, has announced that countries like India and Pakistan have agreed with the … Read : European Union to open anti-terror centre in Bangladesh.

US expects Pakistan to bring Mumbai attackers to justice

WASHINGTON – The United States has said it fully expects Pakistan to carry out its pledges of cooperation in bringing the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks to justice.

“Well, these are allegations we’ve heard before,” State Department spokesman Mark Toner told reporters when asked to comment on reports that some members of Pakistani … Original article on : US expects Pakistan to bring Mumbai attackers to justice.

9/11 terrorists didn’t come from Canada, US told

TORONTO – Canada has once again rebutted the charges by American politicians that 9/11 hijackers entered the US from its northern neighbour.

The rebuttal came after US Republican Senate candidate Sharron Angle last week said that her country’s “most porous” border with Canada was a cause for concern.
“What we know is that our northern … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 9/11 terrorists didn’t come from Canada, US told.

CIA cites mistakes in deadly suicide bombing

WASHINGTON – The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has concluded that it failed to fully vet a double agent who carried out an attack in Afghanistan in December and killed seven agency employees.

CIA Director Leon Panetta released a statement on the findings of a task force investigating the attack saying the agency encountered shortcomings in … Read : CIA cites mistakes in deadly suicide bombing.

US soldier in custody after Taliban prisoner’s death

KABUL – A US soldier is in custody after the death of a Taliban militant from gunshot wounds at a detention facility in Afghanistan’s restive Kandahar province, Xinhua reported Tuesday.

The victim’s body was found Sunday. He was captured Saturday in Arghandab district of the province.
The militant was held at an Afghan government facility …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US soldier in custody after Taliban prisoner’s death.

Militants torch plane in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Militants Tuesday torched a plane in Pakistan, a media report said.

The aircraft, which belonged to a private airline company, was parked at an airport in Parachinar, the headquarter of the Kurram Agency, when it was set ablaze.
The plane used to fly between Peshawar and Parachinar once a week, the Online …. Source  : Militants torch plane in Pakistan.

UN envoy survives Iraq bomb attack

BAGHDAD – UN’s top envoy to Iraq, Ad Melkert, escaped unhurt in a bomb attack on his convoy Tuesday, Xinhua reported.

The attack took place when he was enroute to Baghdad after meeting Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani in southern Najaf city, 160 km south of the capital, an official said requesting anonymity. One policeman … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : UN envoy survives Iraq bomb attack.

CRPF to stay in Bengal till Maoists flushed out: Vijay Kumar

KOLKATA – The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel deployed in the Maoist-affected districts of West Bengal will not be withdrawn till the rebels are flushed out, CRPF Director General K. Vijay Kumar said Tuesday.

Vijay Kumar also said that he had not received any complaints about the state’s ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) …. Source article  : CRPF to stay in Bengal till Maoists flushed out: Vijay Kumar.

Mamata again seeks joint forces out of Maoist-hit areas

KOLKATA – Apparently annoyed with the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Tuesday said her party would continue to demand withdrawal of the joint security forces from West Bengal’s Maoist-affected districts.

A visibly angry Banerjee said she had repeatedly brought to the notice of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, [..] Read the original article: here.

Government funds used to aid Assam terror group: NIA

NEW DELHI – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Tuesday filed charges in an Assam court against 16 people, including politicians and government servants, for allegedly channelising crores of rupees of developmental funds to a terrorist gang to procure arms.

A charge sheet submitted to the chief judicial magistrate at a special court in Guwahati …. Original article  : Government funds used to aid Assam terror group: NIA.

CRPF will not be withdrawn from West Bengal: Vijay Kumar

KOLKATA – Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel deployed in the Maoist-affected districts of West Bengal will not be withdrawn, CRPF director general K. Vijay Kumar said Tuesday.

“There is no question of withdrawing the forces. The personnel are working independently and will continue to work in this manner,” said Kumar.
Kumar’s comments came a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Delhi was target after ISI-aided Mumbai attack, says Headley (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI/LONDON – Pakistani-American terror suspect David Headley has told Indian investigators that he had scouted Delhi for potential strike targets, including the prime minister’s residence and key defence complexes, four months after the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) had a major role to play.

Headley, who has confessed his [..] Read the original article: here.

10 killed in Iraq bomb attack

BAGHDAD – At least 10 people were killed Tuesday when a bomb exploded in the house of a police officer in Iraq, Xinhua reported.

Eight bodies were retrieved and two more were still under the debris of the house which collapsed after the bomb explosion in Tikrit, the capital city of Salahudin province, a …. Source article  : 10 killed in Iraq bomb attack.

Maoists fire at passenger bus in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoist militants Tuesday evening opened fire at a passenger bus in a forested stretch of Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, officials said.

“Maoists fired at a bus at Awapalli in Bijapur district when it was on way to Usur from the district headquarters of Bijapur town,” a source at the police headquarters here told …. Original source  : Maoists fire at passenger bus in Chhattisgarh.

It could have been Delhi after Mumbai, Headley admits

NEW DELHI – Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley has told Indian investigators that he had scouted Delhi just four months after the 26/11 Mumbai attack and surveyed potential targets, including the prime minister’s residence and key defence complexes.

Headley, who has confessed his role in plotting the 2008 Mumbai attack with Lashkar-e-Taiba leaders and … Original article on : It could have been Delhi after Mumbai, Headley admits.

It was Delhi after Mumbai, Headley tells investigators

NEW DELHI – Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley has told Indian investigators that he had scouted Delhi for another strike at potential targets, including the prime minister’s residence and key defence complexes.

Headley, who has confessed his role in plotting the 2008 Mumbai attack with Lashkar-e-Taiba leaders and was arrested last year in …. Original article  : It was Delhi after Mumbai, Headley tells investigators.

Three killed in militant attack on Chechen parliament

Grozny, Oct 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Three people were killed and 17 injured Tuesday morning when militants attacked the parliament of Russia’s republic of Chechnya, authorities said.

“At around 8.45 a.m. three militants opened fire at parliamentary security guards,” Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said, adding that two police officers and a parliamentary administrative manager were killed.
… Original article on : Three killed in militant attack on Chechen parliament.

Kasab spits on video camera, wants to go to US

MUMBAI – Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, caught alive during the 26/11 Mumbai mayhem, Tuesday spat on the video-conferencing camera in the Arthur Road Central Jail from where he ‘attends’ the proceedings in the Mumbai High Court where arguments on confirming his death sentence are going on.

Though the jail officials discreetly switched … Read more : Kasab spits on video camera, wants to go to US.

ISI involved in Mumbai terror attack, says Headley

LONDON – Pakistan’s Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) was heavily involved in the Mumbai attack and held meetings with terrorist leaders over the operation that killed more than 160 people, Pakistani American David Headley has told Indian interrogators.

The stunning revelations were made by Headley at the Metropolitan Correction Centre in Chicago when he met officials … Read more »»».

Man who tried selling arms to LTTE convicted in US

WASHINGTON – A Singapore man who tried to sell arms to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been convicted by a court in the US.

A Baltimore federal court jury Monday convicted Balraj Naidu, 48, for attempting to sell the weapons to the Tamil Tigers. Four co-conspirators pleaded guilty in the case, said …. Source article  : Man who tried selling arms to LTTE convicted in US.

India isn’t a threat to Pakistan, US tells Islamabad

WASHINGTON – The US Wednesday reiterated it has clearly told Islamabad that “existential threat to Pakistan is not India; the existential threat to Pakistan involves extremism within its own borders”.

It also said that Pakistan, India and Iran can play a “constructive role” in a regional solution to Afghanistan.
“We have made no secret … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India isn’t a threat to Pakistan, US tells Islamabad.

Mamata focuses on Maoist-hit areas ahead of assembly poll

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday said that her party plans to undertake a trust building exercise in West Bengal’s Maoist-affected areas ahead of next year’s assembly election.

She said the party also planned to divide the state into three zones to smoothly carry out ground work ahead of the … Read more »».

India had only non-specific information on 26/11: Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Wednesday said India had received only “general and non-specific” information prior to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

“Well, we had some general and non-specific information which we had received prior to the heinous Mumbai attack. But it was not so specific. It was by and large general,” [..] Read the original article: here.

Kasab judicial panel: India asks Pakistan to clarify terms

NEW DELHI – India Wednesday asked Pakistan for details of the judicial commission it plans to send here to verify statements of officials who recorded the confessional of Ajmal Amir Kasab, the 26/11 terror convict, and ruled out their cross-examination.

“India has sought clarifications from the Pakistan side on, inter alia, the law under which … Read more »»».

Kasab absent for court proceedings Wednesday

MUMBAI – Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab Wednesday remained absent for the proceedings of the Bombay High Court where arguments on confirming his death sentence are going on. He attended the first two days of the proceeding via video-camera in the Arthur Road Central Jail here.

“The court has allowed him to decide whether … Original article on : Kasab absent for court proceedings Wednesday.

Australian PM slams union leader for saying 9/11 a US plot

MELBOURNE – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard Wednesday dismissed as “stupid and wrong” a trade union leader’s remarks that the Sep 11, 2001 terror attacks in the US were a conspiracy.

Kevin Bracken, the secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia and Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) president, Wednesday asked for a fresh inquiry into …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australian PM slams union leader for saying 9/11 a US plot.

Taliban helped Times Square bomber, Pakistan court told

ISLAMABAD – Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had extended financial support to Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American who attempted to bomb Times Square in New York in May, a court was informed.

The revelation has been made by Islamabad police in their investigation report following the arrest of three suspects – Hunbal Akhtar, Muhammad Shoaib Mughal and …. Original article  : Taliban helped Times Square bomber, Pakistan court told.

Chechnya’s Parliament Attacked

GROZNY, RUSSIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The parliament in the trouble-torn Russian republic of Chechnya was witness to a bloody battle today when it was stormed by around four militants on early Monday morning. The situation was brought under control after an intense gun battle between the militants and the security forces ensued leading to the death … Read more : Chechnya’s Parliament Attacked.

Russell Williams’s Sordid Past Unveiled

OTTAWA, CANADA (GaeaTimes.com)- An Air force pilot and colonel who once was given the responsibility of flying none other than Queen Elizabeth in Canada has been found guilty of rape, sexual assaults and murders. The development has left the army of Canada red faced and the former pilot Russell Williams has pleaded guilty in … Read more >>>.

Roseville Galleria Fire Severely Damages Mall

ROSEVILLE, CALIFORNIA (Gaea Times.com) Roseville Galleria Mall, located in Roseville, California, was heavily damaged on Wednesday, when a retail store inside the mall was set on fire. An armed man, Alexander Piggee had reportedly entered the store at about 10:30 am and claimed that he had a gun, he asked the people to go … Original article on : Roseville Galleria Fire Severely Damages Mall.

Jammu and Kashmir fears terror strike on eve of Obama trip

JAMMU – Fearing a major terror attack ahead of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India early next month, a security strategy will be chalked out in Jammu and Kashmir, an official said.

The Unified Command, which is the state’s highest decision making agency on security, will meet in the next couple of days to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jammu and Kashmir fears terror strike on eve of Obama trip.

Roadside bomb kills six Pakistani troops

ISLAMABAD – A roadside bomb hit a paramilitary vehicle in Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border Friday, killing one senior officer and five soldiers, a security official said.

Three more troopers of the paramilitary Frontier Corps were injured in the bombing, which took place in Orakzai, a known hotbed of Taliban and Al …. Original article  : Roadside bomb kills six Pakistani troops.

Maoist nabbed from West Bengal forest

KOLKATA – A Maoist leader wanted in nine murder cases has been arrested in West Bengal’s Bankura district, police said Friday.

“Acting on a tip-off, security personnel late Thursday raided Paradihi forest in Bankura district and arrested Haren Singh Sardar,” a police official said.
“Haren was wanted in at least 21 cases, including nine murder … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoist nabbed from West Bengal forest.

US warns Pakistan to fight Taliban or lose funding: WSJ

WASHINGTON – The United States has warned Pakistani leaders that continued inaction against Taliban and Al Qaeda havens bordering Afghanistan could jeopardise some large US cash payouts to Islamabad, the Wall Street Journal said in a report.

The warnings from Obama administration officials have raised the stakes in their ongoing strategic dialogue here after months …. Original article  : US warns Pakistan to fight Taliban or lose funding: WSJ.

Yemen arrests five Pakistanis for promoting Al Qaeda

SANAA – Five Pakistanis were arrested in Yemen Thursday for disseminating Al Qaeda ideology and inciting people to kill non-Muslims, Xinhua reported.

The accused, aged between 27 and 65, were arrested in the Yemeni capital, the interior ministry said on its website.
Five Yemenis were also held for helping the Pakistanis. Police …. Source article  : Yemen arrests five Pakistanis for promoting Al Qaeda.

Maoists kill ex-village head for corruption

RAIPUR – A former village head abducted two days ago was executed by Maoists Thursday in front of villagers in Chhattisgarh after being charged with financial irregularities, officials said.

Gulab Singh was kidnapped Tuesday from Narayanpur district in Bastar region. On Thursday, the Maoists convened a ‘jan adalat’ or people’s court where dozens of locals … Read more : Maoists kill ex-village head for corruption.

Maoist posters found in Bengal town

KOLKATA – Maoist posters were found in West Bengal’s troubled West Midnapore district Thursday, police said.

Several Maoist posters were found from various areas of Jhargram town. The posters appealed to the lower rank police personnel and the central paramilitary troopers not to follow the diktats of the ruling Marxists, a police officer said.
“Be … Read more >>>.

Gunfight outside Srinagar ends, two militants killed (Roundup)

SRINAGAR – The over 10-hour-long gunfight between three guerrillas of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit and security forces in a village on the outskirts of Srinagar ended Thursday evening with two militants being shot dead and the third caught alive, police said.

“Two militants including a commander of the Jaish outfit have been killed in the Malura encounter …. Source article  : Gunfight outside Srinagar ends, two militants killed (Roundup).

Kashmir gunfight: Third militant caught alive

SRINAGAR – The third Jaish-e-Mohammed militant, involved in the over 10-hour long gunfight with security forces in a village on the outskirts of Srinagar Thursday, has been caught alive, police said.

The guerrilla jumped out of the besieged house in Malura village where the three were holed up and started indiscriminate firing before taking …. Original article  : Kashmir gunfight: Third militant caught alive.

Kashmir gunfight ends, two militants die

SRINAGAR – The 10-hour gunfight between two guerrillas of Jaish-e-Muhammad outfit and security forces in a village on the outskirts of Srinagar ended with both militants being shot dead, police said.
… Read more »»».

Peace interlocutor meets ULFA leaders in Guwahati jail

GUWAHATI – The deadlocked peace process between the government and the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) gathered momentum with New Delhi’s peace interlocutor P.C. Haldar Thursday holding a meeting with the top rebel leadership inside the Guwahati Central Jail.

Haldar met jailed ULFA leaders, including chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa, and discussed modalities for formal … Read more »».

Al Qaeda man linked to 9/11 had lunch at Pentagon

LONDON – An Al Qaeda leader who has been on the radar of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for his links with the Sep 11, 2001 terror strikes was invited for lunch at the Pentagon within months of the attack, a media report said.

Anwar Al-Awlaki, a US citizen on the CIA’s kill or … Read : Al Qaeda man linked to 9/11 had lunch at Pentagon.

Three Bodo militants arrested in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Three tribal separatists of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) were arrested Thursday in a raid by security forces from Assams main city of Guwahati, officials said.

A police spokesperson said the three NDFB militants were staying in rented accommodation for the past few weeks.
“The NDFB militants were in the … Read more : Three Bodo militants arrested in Guwahati.

Sabotage caused Gyaneshwari train mishap, probe reveals

NEW DELHI – A probe panel has confirmed that sabotage caused the May 28 mishap of the Gyaneshwari Express train that led to the deaths of 150 passengers and injuries to 157, the railway ministry said Thursday.

The probe has revealed that the accident had occurred due to tampering of track, including removal of … Read : Sabotage caused Gyaneshwari train mishap, probe reveals.

India for global cooperation to combat terror: President

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Thursday said “the foremost threat” the world faces today was terrorism and India wanted the menace to be combated by using all the force at its command and in close cooperation with the international community.

“One of the foremost threats that the civilized world is confronted with is from … Original source on Gaea Times at : India for global cooperation to combat terror: President.

Nine dead in bomb blast inside Philippine bus

COTABATO CITY – Nine people were killed Thursday in a bombing inside a passenger bus in the southern Philippines, the military and police said.

The bus was travelling along a national highway in Matalam town in North Cotabato province, 930 km south of Manila, when the blast occurred.
Lieutenant Colonel Randolph Cabangbang, a regional military …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists abduct intelligence officer in Bengal

KOLKATA – An Intelligence Branch officer and an NGO worker were reportedly abducted by the Maoists from West Bengal’s Purulia district, police said Saturday.

An Intelligence Branch officer from Kolkata came to Purulia Friday. We were initially unaware of his visit. We came to know that he had been abducted by the Maoists and we … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists abduct intelligence officer in Bengal.

Maoists blow up panchayat godown in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – About 30 Maoists early Saturday blew up an empty panchayat godown in Orissa’s Malkangiri district, police said.

“The rebels blew up the godown at Niliguda village using land mines,” police officer Debashis Mishra told IANS over phone.
The district of Malkangiri, some 600 km from here, is considered a Maoists stronghold.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists blow up panchayat godown in Orissa.

Pakistan air force pounds militant hideouts, 13 killed

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani fighter aircraft Saturday targeted alleged militants in northwestern tribal region, killing at least 13, officials said.

The airstrikes were carried out in Maomazai area of Orakzai district, one of seven tribal regions, and a known hotbed of Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters.
A security official said on the condition of anonymity that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan air force pounds militant hideouts, 13 killed.

Maoist shutdown hits life in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar

RAIPUR – Normal life continued to remain hit in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist stronghold of Bastar region Saturday, the second and final day of shutdown by rebels, as buses did not ply and shops were closed.

The shutdown has made a strong impact in five districts of Bastar – Dantewada, Bijapur, Bastar, Narayanpur and Kanker as buses … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoist shutdown hits life in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar.

Three terrorists killed, gunfight on in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Three terrorists from across the border were Saturday killed in a gunbattle with the army that continues to rage in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, an official said.

Three infiltrating terrorists have been killed so far in Uri sector of the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla,” Lieutenant Colonel J.S. Brar, spokesman of …. Read the original article  : here.

Pakistani jailed in US for helping Taliban

WASHINGTON – A 33-year-old Pakistani who came to the US on a student visa was sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment after being convicted of possessing firearms and planning to help the Taliban.

Adnan Mirza was given 15 years jail without parole for unlawfully possessing firearms and conspiring to provide material support to the extremist … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani jailed in US for helping Taliban.

US seeks wider CIA role to fight militants in Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The US is pushing to expand the presence of its Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officers in Pakistan in order to help Islamabad target the safe havens of Al Qaeda and other militants more aggressively, a media report said.

The push comes as the White House seeks ways to prod Islamabad into more aggressive … Read more : US seeks wider CIA role to fight militants in Pakistan.

Security up in Bihar after Maoists kill six policemen

PATNA – Security was tightened in Bihar’s Sheohar district Saturday, a day after Maoist guerrillas triggered a landmine blast killing six policemen ahead of the second phase of assembly elections in the state Sunday.

“Combing operations were intensified. Security has been tightened to give sense of confidence among people a day ahead of polls following …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Security up in Bihar after Maoists kill six policemen.

Five die, 30 hurt in Peshawar mosque blast

ISLAMABAD – Five people were killed and 30 others injured Friday in a bomb attack at a mosque in Pakistan’s northwestern Peshawar city.

The blast took place when people were coming out after offering Friday prayers at the mosque in Pishta Khara area of Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Five people were killed, … Read more >>>.

Five Bihar cops killed in landmine blast

PATNA – Five policemen, including an inspector, were killed and one seriously injured Friday when Maoists triggered a landmine blast in Bihar’s Sheohar district, where polling is due Oct 24.

The policemen were returning to the Shyampur Bhitta police station after patrolling when Maoists set off the mine, hidden beneath a culvert, as the police …. Source article  : Five Bihar cops killed in landmine blast.

India, US differ over Headley 26/11 info

NEW DELHI – India Friday reiterated that it did not get any specific information from the US over the 26/11 attacks even as Washington maintained that it has shared all the information with New Delhi.

“Before 26/11, we did not have anything more than general and non-specific information,” Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao told reporters …. Original article  : India, US differ over Headley 26/11 info.

Six Maoists nabbed from West Bengal

KOLKATA – Six ultra-left leaders and linkmen were arrested from West Bengals Maoist-affected Bankura and Purulia districts, police said Friday.

“Acting on a tip-off, security personnel late Thursday raided Paradihi forest in Bankura district and arrested Haren Sign Sardar – a member of a Maoist action squad active in Belpahari of West Midnapore district. A …. Source article  : Six Maoists nabbed from West Bengal.

Al Qaeda warns Bulgaria over involvement in Afghanistan

SOFIA – Bulgaria has made itself a target for terrorist attacks since it sent its soldiers to Iraq and Afghanistan, a representative of an Islamic extremist group said in an interview published Friday.

“Your soldiers deployed to fight in a Muslim land, so Bulgaria became a legal and legitimate target of Al Qaeda,” Sheik Abu … Read more >>>.

Three die in Peshawar mosque blast

ISLAMABAD – At least three people were killed and more than 20 injured in a blast inside a mosque situated in northwestern Pakistan’s Peshawar district Friday.

The windowpanes of the mosque in Pishta Khara area were broken after the blast that occurred when people were coming out after offering Friday prayers. It was a locally …. Original article  : Three die in Peshawar mosque blast.

Two killed in Pakistan mosque blast

ISLAMABAD – At least two people were killed and 15 were injured Friday in a blast at mosque in Peshawar.

According to Geo News, the explosives planted inside the mosque of the Pushta Khara area went off when a number of people were gathered for a traditional Friday prayer.
The explosion also shattered the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two killed in Pakistan mosque blast.

Alexander Piggee Arrested For Roseville Mall Fire

ROSEVILLE (Gaea Times.com) Alexander Piggee has been arrested on the grounds of having set Roseville Galleria Mall on fire, on Wednesday. The 23 year old suspect was arrested from inside the mall where he took shelter after having set fire to the merchandise in a video game retail store, which quickly spread to …. Original source  : Alexander Piggee Arrested For Roseville Mall Fire.

Growing Islamic extremism in India a concern: Musharraf

WASHINGTON – Growing Islamic extremism among the youth in India is a matter of concern and New Delhi “needs to look into that”, says former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf.

The former military ruler also said that Pakistan faced threats from Al Qaeda who exist “in small numbers” in the country’s western tribal areas, the Pakistani … Read more »»».

Antinette Keller’s Body Found?

DEKALB (GaeaTimes.com)- DeKalb Police reclassified the missing Northern Illinois University Antinette Keller’s case as death investigation yesterday. Police chief Bill Feithen announced on Saturday that the human remains and items which was “consistent” with the belongings of the missing 18-year-old girl have been found in DeKalb’s Prairie Park and it prompted the police to … Read more : Antinette Keller’s Body Found?.

Voting under way in Bihar amid Maoist disruptions (Third Lead)

PATNA – Voting was under way in 45 constituencies in the second phase of Bihar assembly elections Sunday as Maoists attempted to disrupt polling in two places in Sitamarhi district, officials said.

Voting began at 7 a.m. amid tight security across the Tirhut-Mithilanchal belt.
Maoists tried to disrupt polling in two separate incidents in Runni … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Voting under way in Bihar amid Maoist disruptions (Third Lead).

UN chief condemns attack on Afghan UN office

UNITED NATIONS – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned the suicide attack on a UN office in Afghanistan’s Herat province.

Saturday’s attack did not disrupt UN activities in Herat and no UN staff members were hurt.
However, at least two security guards were injured in the attack, Xinhua reported citing the UN Assistance Mission …. Read the original article  : UN chief condemns attack on Afghan UN office.

Man killed by Maoists during Chhattisgarh shutdown

RAIPUR – A man was found murdered in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist stronghold of Bastar region Saturday while normal life continued to remain hit on the second and final day of a shutdown by rebels, as buses did not ply and shops were closed.

The shutdown has made a strong impact in five districts of Bastar … Original article on : Man killed by Maoists during Chhattisgarh shutdown.

NATO soldier, civilians killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – A NATO soldier and three civilians were killed in southern Afghanistan, while a journalist working for The New York Times newspaper was injured, officials said Saturday.

The soldier died following an “insurgent attack” in the volatile region Saturday, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said in a statement. The military did not …. Original source  : NATO soldier, civilians killed in Afghanistan.

Two militants killed in Russia

Moscow, Oct 23 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Two militants were killed in a shootout in Russia’s volatile southern republic of Dagestan Saturday, police said.

“The incident occurred in the Kizilyurtovsk region of Dagestan. Police were searching for militants who earlier shot at a police officer and his brother,” the police said.
Terrorist attacks and shootouts with police …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two militants killed in Russia.

Intelligence official abducted by Maoists in Bengal

KOLKATA – An Intelligence Branch (IB) officer and an NGO worker were abducted by the Maoists from West Bengal’s Purulia district, police said Saturday.

“Partha Biswas, an officer of IB from Kolkata, came to Purulia Friday. We were initially unaware of his visit. We came to know that he had been abducted by the Maoists …. Read the original article  : Intelligence official abducted by Maoists in Bengal.

Senior RSS leader named suspect in Ajmer blast case, denies charge

JAIPUR/NEW DELHI – Senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Indresh Kumar was present when the conspiracy to carry out a blast at Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s shrine in Ajmer was hatched, according to the charge-sheet in the case. He has denied the charges.

However, Indresh Kumar has not been named as accused in the charge-sheet filed [..] Read the original article: here.

Suicide bombers attack UN office in Afghanistan

KABUL – Suicide bombers attacked United Nations offices in western Afghanistan Saturday, an Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman said.

Zemary Bashir confirmed the attack, saying that an unspecified number of gunmen with suicide vests had entered a UN compound in the western province of Herat.
“The police are surrounding the UN compound in Herat,” he said.
…. Source article  : Suicide bombers attack UN office in Afghanistan.

Pamela Smart Opens Up In Interview

LOS ANGELES (Gaea Times.com) Death is often preferable over life at times. Pamela Smart while on national television said that she finds death more preferable than spending twenty years of her life in prison. Pamela Smart was convicted in 1990, for involvement in the murder of her husband. The investigation had found that … Original article on : Pamela Smart Opens Up In Interview.

Mizoram to hold talks with militant outfit

AIZAWL – The Mizoram government will hold talks with the radical outfit Hmar People’s Convention-Democrats (HPC-D), officials said Saturday.

“The HPC-D had recently approached the Mizoram government for talks and the latter agreed immediately,” a Mizoram home department official told IANS.
The official said that though details of the talks are yet to be finalised, [..] Read the original article: here.

Three blasts rock UN office in Afghanistan

KABUL – A UN office in Afghanistan’s Herat city was hit by three blasts Saturday when a group of militants stormed the premises, a media report said.

“Armed militants attacked the office of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in Herat city with explosions and gunfire,” Xinhua news agency quoted a security official …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Three blasts rock UN office in Afghanistan.