Crime Watch – Weekly Newsletter for November 1-8, 2010

Monday, November 8, 2010

‘Child soldier’ Khadr gets 40-year jail at Guantanamo

TORONTO – Afghan Canadian Omar Khadr, the only child soldier and last western prisoner held at Guantanamo, has been sentenced to 40 years in jail for killing a US medic in Afghanistan in 2002.

Twenty-four-year-old Khadr, whose father was a close aide of Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, was 15 when he was arrested … Read : ‘Child soldier’ Khadr gets 40-year jail at Guantanamo.

22 killed in Iraq church seizure: Report

LONDON/WASHINGTON – At least 10 hostages and 12 others were killed Sunday night after Iraqi forces stormed a Christian church where militants had taken dozens of people hostage, according to a newspaper report.

London’s Guardian newspaper, whose reporter was on the scene of the hostage seizure, also wrote that 30 hostages had been injured.
Seven … Read more : 22 killed in Iraq church seizure: Report.

Several hostages killed in Iraq church seizure

BAGHDAD – Several hostages were dead Sunday after Iraqi forces stormed a Christian church where five militants had taken dozens of people hostage, Iraq’s Defence Minister Abdul-Qadir Mohammed Al-Obeidi said.

“A limited number of victims fell” when militants entered the church and some explosive devices went off, he said. He would not specify the number … Read more »»».

Suspect in parcel bomb plot released by Yemen police

LONDON/SANA’A – Yemen police Sunday released a university student arrested the day before on suspicion of having links to two parcels containing explosives found on US-bound flights, a security source said.

Hanan Mohamed al-Sanawy, 22, a computer science student “was released after investigations showed that she was the wrong person,” the source told the German … Original source on Gaea Times at : Suspect in parcel bomb plot released by Yemen police.

Al Qaeda militants hold hostages in Baghdad church

BAGHDAD – Members of the Al Qaeda-affiliated Islamic State of Iraq were holding hostages inside a church in central Baghdad Sunday and threatened to kill them if security forces, who have surrounded the building, tried to enter.

“An armed attack targeted the Sayedat al-Najah Church in al-Karrada, central Baghdad,” Qassem Atta, spokesman for Baghdad Operations … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Al Qaeda militants hold hostages in Baghdad church.

Yemen bomb went on two passenger jets: Qatar Airways

LONDON – Qatar Airways Sunday said one of the two bombs sent through parcels from Yemen and addressed to Chicago-based synagogues, which were detected on cargo planes in Dubai and Britain, was ferried on two passenger flights in the Middle East.

A package containing explosives hidden in a printer cartridge arrived in Qatar Airways’ hub …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Yemen bomb went on two passenger jets: Qatar Airways.

Six killed by car bomb in Baghdad

BAGHDAD – Six people were killed and four injured in a car bomb attack in northern Baghdad Sunday, a police source said.

“A car parked in a garage near a police station exploded, killing six people, including policemen, and injuring four others,” the source said.
The explosion caused sever damage to a number of cars …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Six killed by car bomb in Baghdad.

32 injured in Istanbul suicide bombing

ISTANBUL – A suicide bomb attack in front of a police station in central Istanbul injured 32 people Sunday, 17 of them passers-by, the city’s police chief said.

The attacker had tried to force his way on to a police bus in Taksim Square, but was pushed aside before he could detonate his explosives, Huseyin …. Original article : 32 injured in Istanbul suicide bombing.

Sweep of arrests in Yemen as government decries ‘hype’

SANA’A – Yemeni security forces Sunday arrested an undisclosed number of people said to have information regarding US-bound packages that contained explosive materials, security officials announced.

Security forces said they found the detainees by inspecting the phone records of Hanan Mohamed al-Sanawy, a female university student arrested late Saturday on suspicion of having sent the … Read : Sweep of arrests in Yemen as government decries ‘hype’.

Afghan, NATO forces kill 17 suspected militants

KABUL – A provincial official in Afghanistan Sunday claimed 17 suspected Taliban militants were killed in a joint Afghan and NATO operation in the south of the country, where a blast killed a policeman and a civilian.

Acting on tip-off provided by an intelligence agent, the combined forces confronted a group of suspected militants in …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Qatar Airways shipped Yemen parcel with explosives

DOHA – Qatar Airways confirmed Sunday that it had shipped US-bound parcels that originated in Yemen and were found to contain explosive materials, state-run media in the Gulf country reported.

The airline, however, charged that responsibility for cargo inspections lies with the country of origin and not with transit countries.
The statement came two days …. Source article : Qatar Airways shipped Yemen parcel with explosives.

UAE condemns Turkey suicide blast

Abu Dhabi, Oct 31 (IANS/WAM) The United Arab Emirate (UAE) condemned the suicide bombing in Turkey, which injured 22 people Sunday, as “a coward terrorist act”.

A statement by the UAE foreign ministry described the attack as “a coward terrorist act” and said it stands by the Turkish government and people against terrorist attacks that … Read more >>>.

22 injured in Turkey explosion

ISTANBUL – At least 22 people were injured in an explosion triggered by a suicide bomber in this capital city of Turkey Sunday.

The bombing occurred at the central Taksim Square of the city, in which 12 civilians and 10 policemen were injured, Xinhua quoted Istanbul Governor Avni Mutlu as saying.
Istanbul Police Chief …. Original source : 22 injured in Turkey explosion.

Three suspected terrorists arrested near Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – Security agencies in Pakistan Sunday arrested three suspected terrorists in Wah Cantonment, 30 km from Islamabad.

Sources said banned chemicals, latest firearms and other sensitive materials were recovered from the arrested trio. “The arrested trio is also believed to be involved in looting and setting NATO containers on fire,” they said.
The …. Source article : Three suspected terrorists arrested near Islamabad.

NGOs supporting Maoists under scanner in Jharkhand

RANCHI – The Jharkhand government has put a large number of voluntary organisations in in the state under the scanner for their alleged soft corner for Maoists or for promoting illegal activities of the Leftist rebels.

Government sources told IANS that a letter was sent early this month to the administrations of Maoist-hit districts to …. Original article : NGOs supporting Maoists under scanner in Jharkhand.

Each parcel bomb could have blown up 50 jets, say experts

LONDON – Each of the two parcel bombs mailed to US-based synagogues, which were detected on board flights in Britain and Dubai, contained enough explosives to blow up 50 jets, British experts said.

The capability of Al Qaeda’s latest weapons was revealed as British Home Secretary Theresa May confirmed that fanatics in Yemen who hatched … Read more : Each parcel bomb could have blown up 50 jets, say experts.

Yemen protests German ban on Yemeni flights

Sana’a,YEMEN/BERLIN – Yemen expressed “regret and surprise” Monday after Germany banned all flights from Yemen, describing the move as a “collective and illogical punishment” to the parcel bombs plot.

A ban by Germany on incoming parcels and other air cargo from Yemen was widened Monday into an exclusion from German airspace of all planes that …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Parcel bomb addressed to Sarkozy found in Greece

LONDON – Greek police have detected explosive packages addressed to French President Nicolas Sarkozy and three foreign embassies in Athens, a media report said.

The France-bound booby-trapped device was found in the hands of two far-Left Greek militants after another parcel detonated at a courier company in the capital, the Sky News reported.
Other explosive … Original source on Gaea Times at : Parcel bomb addressed to Sarkozy found in Greece.

Young jihadi’s repatriation issue divides Canada

TORONTO – The bombing of the Air India Kanishka that killed all 329 people over the Atlantic did not exercise Canadians even for a day, but the conviction of a young Afghan-Canadian Sunday for killing an American medic in Afghanistan in 2002 has divided and outraged the country.

Toronto-born Omar Khadr, 23, the world’s first …. Original article : Young jihadi’s repatriation issue divides Canada.

Pope deplores Baghdad church bloodbath

Rome, Nov 2 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI Monday called for an end to the “absurd and ferocious violence against Christians in Iraq”.

He was speaking after more than 50 people died in an attack on a Catholic church in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. An Al Qaeda linked group claimed the attack in a message … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pope deplores Baghdad church bloodbath.

Young jihadi divides Canada

TORONTO – The bombing of the Air India Kanishka that killed all 329 people never exercised Canadians even for a day, but the conviction of a young Afghan-Canadian Sunday for killing an American medic in Afghanistan in 2002 has outraged and divided the country.

Toronto-born Omar Khadr, 24, the world’s first child soldier since World … Read more : Young jihadi divides Canada.

Six killed in separate attacks in Iraq

MOSUL – Six people were killed and 12 injured Monday in a series of attacks in Iraq’s northern city of Mosul, security sources said.

Three civilians were killed and six injured by a bomb blast targeting a police patrol in the district of Hay el Ba’ath.
An elderly man was killed and his daughter was … Read more : Six killed in separate attacks in Iraq.

The Accused On The Elizabeth Smart Kipnapping Evicted

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) — Brian David Mitchell the man accused of kidnapping and sexually assaulting Elizabeth Smart after abducting her for 9 months was booted out from the Utah Court and the strange thing is that it is not the first time he has been booted off from a courts proceeding.
Brian David started to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : The Accused On The Elizabeth Smart Kipnapping Evicted.

Greek police intercept parcel bomb addressed to Sarkozy

ATHENS – Greek police said they arrested two suspects carrying a parcel bomb addressed to French President Nicolas Sarkozy Monday, after a similar package exploded earlier at a courier company in Athens.

Officials said they arrested two Greek men, aged 22 and 24, in central Athens after finding two explosive devices in their possession. One …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Greek police intercept parcel bomb addressed to Sarkozy.

3 suspected Babbar Khalsa terrorists arrested in Punjab

FATEHGARH SAHIB – Police Monday arrested three suspected Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorists from Bugga Kanchiya village in Fatehgarh Sahib district of the state.

We had secret information that terrorists will pass through this village in a car. Our special team laid a trap and intercepted the car. They were identified as Kulwinder Singh, Rashpal …. Original article : 3 suspected Babbar Khalsa terrorists arrested in Punjab.

India says it’s pursuing Headley extradition

NEW DELHI – Ahead of US President Barack Obama’s visit, India Monday said it was still pursuing the possible extradition of American terrorist David Coleman Headley who has confessed his role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks blamed on the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

(Extradition) is an option and we will continue to pursue that option, Home … Read more >>.

Elizabeth Smart Kidnapper On Trial

SALT LAKE CITY (GaeaTimes.com) After 8 years of delay, the Elizabeth Smart kidnapping case might finally see justice being served as the jury selection starts today. If convicted, the man accused of kidnapping Elizabeth Smart 8 years ago could spend the rest of his life in prison. The trial has received huge media attention … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Elizabeth Smart Kidnapper On Trial.

Al Qaeda man gave tip-off on Yemen cargo bombs

LONDON – A former Al Qaeda member provided the pivotal information that led investigators to a pair of explosives-laden cargo packages last week, Britain’s BBC reported Monday.

Jaber al-Faifi turned himself in to authorities in Saudi Arabia two weeks ago, the broadcaster quoted unidentified officials as saying. Remorse then led him to divulge the information … Original source on Gaea Times at : Al Qaeda man gave tip-off on Yemen cargo bombs.

US didn’t share Headley’s name till a year after 26/11: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – The US had not mentioned Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley in its intelligence sharing with India until a year after the 2008 Mumbai attack, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Monday, adding that the two governments were working on a new terror cooperation initiative.

The home minister, however, said intelligence cooperation … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US didn’t share Headley’s name till a year after 26/11: Chidambaram.

Security grid warns of terror strikes in Kashmir

JAMMU – Terrorists may try to disrupt peace in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of US President Barack Obama’s India visit beginning Saturday, the top security grid of the state warned Monday.

Senior security officials, including from the army, paramilitary and police, in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called for intensified vigil ahead …. Source : Security grid warns of terror strikes in Kashmir.

Two policemen die, 12 hurt in Pakistan suicide bomb attack

ISLAMABAD – Two policemen were killed and 12 others, including 10 policemen, were injured in a suicide bomb attack Monday on a police check-post in northwest Pakistan.

The attack took place in the Mansoor Shah police lines in the Swabi district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
District police officer (DPO) Abdullah Khan said … Read : Two policemen die, 12 hurt in Pakistan suicide bomb attack.

Osama Bin Laden’s Message Fails To Deter France

PARIS, FRANCE (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems that the French government is in no mood to cow down in the wake of the terror threats that it is facing from Osama Bin Laden. French president Nicolas Sarkozy said at the European Union summit in Brussels that the threatening message that has come to light and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Osama Bin Laden’s Message Fails To Deter France.

Baghdad’s Hostage Crisis Ends

BAGHDAD, IRAQ (GaeaTimes.com)- The hostage situation in a Catholic church in Central Baghdad was brought under control on Sunday by Iraqi security forces which finally brought to an end to a stand-off that lasted for hours. The Iraqi police officials have confirmed that as many as 37 people have lost their lives in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Baghdad’s Hostage Crisis Ends.

Toll in Baghdad church seizure reaches 52 (Second Lead)

BAGHDAD – At least 52 people were killed and 70 injured after Iraqi forces stormed a Baghdad church where militants were holding dozens of worshippers hostage, witnesses said Monday.

In the incident, which unfolded Sunday evening during services, two priests were killed, local residents said.
A person who was inside the church said that at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Toll in Baghdad church seizure reaches 52 (Second Lead).

Will kill 20 people for every Bodo killed, threatens NDFB

GUWAHATI – The outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) Monday threatened to kill 20 or more people for every one of its cadres killed by security forces, a warning that has triggered security jitters in Assam.

From today onwards, if any innocent NDFB cadres were killed by Indian forces in the name of fake …. Read the original article : Will kill 20 people for every Bodo killed, threatens NDFB.

Parasnath hills: A synthesis of peace and violence

GIRIDIH – They are home to Jain temples where pilgrims come to pay homage, but they are also a safe hideout for Maoist rebels. Jharkhand’s Parasnath hills are home to two contrasting worlds – one that spreads the word of peace and the other that walks the path of violence.

The hills, where 20 Jain …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Parasnath hills: A synthesis of peace and violence.

Over 100 dead in Baghdad blasts

BAGHDAD – More than 100 people were killed and at least 200 injured in a series of car bombings, suicide bombings and explosions from improvised devices that rocked the Iraqi capital Tuesday, security sources and witnesses said.

The blasts – 21 in all – targeted cafes, restaurants and popular markets. Eleven of them were car …. Read the original article : here.

Yemen seeks US help to ease European flight curbs

SANA’A – Yemen Tuesday asked the US for help in convincing European countries to ease flight restrictions imposed in the wake of a foiled bomb plot involving US-bound parcels flown out from Sana’a, the Saba news agency reported.

Last week’s discovery of a pair of printer cartridges loaded with explosives on two cargo flights renewed …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Bomb found in package at Merkel’s office

BERLIN – A suspicious package intercepted Tuesday at German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s office was confirmed to contain explosives, media reported.

High-level security experts told the daily Berliner Morgenpost that the package contained an as yet unknown explosive mechanism that could have detonated.
Government spokesman Steffen Seibert said the package was spotted during a routine check … Read more >>.

Gunman sparks panic in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – A gunman reported to be “mentally sick” opened indiscriminate gunfire from a car here Tuesday, triggering panic, a media report said.

The incident took place in F-11 Markaz area, Online news agency said. The man escaped.
…. Original source : Gunman sparks panic in Islamabad.

Blast damages rail track in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A powerful blast damaged a railway track near Pakistan’s Hyderabad city Tuesday, affecting train services to Karachi, a media report said. No casualties were reported.

Rail traffic was restored after repairs were carried out, Geo News said. The explosion took place in Tando Jam town.
Two blasts Monday had damaged rail tracks between … Read more : Blast damages rail track in Pakistan.

Series of bomb attacks target embassies in Athens (Second Lead)

ATHENS – A bomb exploded Tuesday outside the Swiss Embassy in Athens while Greek police later detonated a series of suspect packages addressed to at least four other embassies.

Swiss Embassy officials said the small bomb exploded after an individual on a motorbike threw a package into the embassy’s garden.
A parcel bomb addressed to …. Source article : Series of bomb attacks target embassies in Athens (Second Lead).

Iran Plans to Execute Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani in Stoning Case

Human Rights Commission is warning Iran’s plan to execute a woman whose sentence to stoning has drawn international condemnation.
Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani awaiting a case in court for allegedly killing her husband. According to Mina Ahadi of the International Committees Against Execution & Stoning, Sakineh has managed to get international awareness that rises hope for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran Plans to Execute Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani in Stoning Case.

Headley access given by US unprecedented: Menon

NEW DELHI – Days before US President Barack Obama’s visit here, National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon Tuesday downplayed the row over 26/11 intelligence sharing by the US pointing out that access given by Washington to the Pakistani-American terrorist David Headley was “unprecedented”.

“In India, (there is a debate on) how much did the US know …. Original source : Headley access given by US unprecedented: Menon.

Australia, Britain warn of Philippine travel

MANILA – Australia and Britain Tuesday warned against travelling to the Philippines over fears of an imminent terrorist attack after a parcel bomb scare in the US.

“Reliable reports indicate that terrorist attacks may be imminent in Manila, including places frequented by foreigners, such as large shopping malls and convention centres,” the Australian travel advisory … Read : Australia, Britain warn of Philippine travel.

Yemen begins massive hunt for Al Qaeda bomb maker, cleric

SANA’A – Yemeni forces Tuesday launched a massive operation against hideouts of Al Qaeda in two provinces east of the capital Sana’a in a bid to capture a Saudi bomb maker and a US-born cleric wanted by Washington, a senior government official said.

The official told DPA the operation in the provinces of Marib and …. Source article : Yemen begins massive hunt for Al Qaeda bomb maker, cleric.

Maoist and close aide arrested in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A Maoist and his close aide were Thursday arrested from West Bengal’s Bankura district, police said.

“Roben Tudu, a member of Ranibandh squad (of Maoists), and his close aide Chitta Ranjan Murmu were arrested from 12-Mile forest in the district. Explosives were also recovered from them,” Bankura police superintendent Pranav Kumar told IANS [..] Read the original article: here.

Sri Lankan Tamil held in Canada for war crimes

TORONTO – A Tamil asylum seeker has been arrested in Canada for war crimes.

The migrant is one of the 492 Sri Lankan Tamils who were smuggled into Vancouver in August on a ship from Thailand.
The accused is under detention in Vancouver and faces deportation to Sri Lanka if charges of war crimes against …. Source article : Sri Lankan Tamil held in Canada for war crimes.

Maoists injure 13 policemen in Bengal

KOLKATA – A police team that raided a Maoist meeting in West Bengal’s Midnapore district early Thursday was attacked by the rebels with bricks and batons. Thirteen police personnel were injured in the counter-attack.

A police team, acting on a tip-off, conducted a raid at Chunapara area of Sankrail in Jhargram sub-division, where the Maoists …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Maoists injure 13 policemen in Bengal.

Four Maoists killed in Orissa gun battle

BHUBANESWAR – Four Maoists were killed in a gun battle with the police in a forested area of Orissa’s Malkangiri district Thursday, police said.

District Superintendent of Police Anirudha Kumar Singh said that after a tip-off that Maoists were hiding near Karlakuta village, police raided the place.
“Some police personals sustained minor injuries in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Four Maoists killed in Orissa gun battle.

Glasgow airport evacuated after suspicious package found

LONDON – Parts of Scotland’s Glasgow airport were evacuated after a suspicious package was found, a media report said.

According to the Daily Telegraph, bomb disposal squads were called to the scene Wednesday, a spokesman for the airport said.
The package was found at around 1955 GMT in the security area where passengers …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Glasgow airport evacuated after suspicious package found.

Suspect linked to cargo plot group held in Britain

LONDON – A member of the Al Qaeda-linked terror group suspected of being behind the recent cargo plane bomb plot was arrested in Britain earlier this year, the government said Wednesday.

Home Secretary Theresa May said the suspect, whom she did not name, was arrested in February on suspicion of having planned an attack in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Suspect linked to cargo plot group held in Britain.

Britain asks US to ban online hate videos

LONDON – Britain has asked the US to shut down all the websites containing videos with hate speeches of the leaders of Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups.

Britain’s Security Minister Baroness Neville-Jones said the websites which try to radicalise members of the public would “categorically not be allowed in the UK” and would be …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Britain asks US to ban online hate videos.

Three landmines recovered in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Three landmines were recovered from the outskirts of Ranchi during anti-Maoist operations Wednesday, police said.

The landmines, including one remote-controlled claymore landmine, were recovered from the jungle areas of Bundu, some 45 km from here. The weight of the landmines varies from 20 kg to 40 kg.
It was a joint search …. Source : Gaea News Network.

India on alert over parcel bombs

NEW DELHI – India Wednesday sounded an alert at all air and sea ports to closely check all overseas shipments coming into the country following detection of two parcel bombs at Athens and London airports, and a third in Berlin.

Sources said that the union home ministry has directed the postal department to … Original article on : India on alert over parcel bombs.

Elizabeth Smart: A Victim of Sexual Assault waiting for Justice Since 2002

SALT LAKE CITY (GaeaTimes.com) — The judge associated with the case of Elizabeth Smart kidnapping case, Has asked the lawyers to speed up their action of questioning jurors. Elizabeth Smart is a victim of sexual assault by Brian David Mitchell.

The incident happened in June 2002 when Elizabeth, then 14 years old. Her family filed a …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Elizabeth Smart: A Victim of Sexual Assault waiting for Justice Since 2002.

Meghalaya official untraced for over a month

SHILLONG – It has been over a month since a state transport officer and his driver were kidnapped by the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) in Meghalaya but even now the police have no idea of their whereabouts, an official said Wednesday.

Five armed men of the GNLA Sep 30 kidnapped Rominus Syngkon, district transport …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Toll in Baghdad bombings reaches 64

BAGHDAD – At least 64 people were killed and 360 wounded, according to the Iraqi Minister of Health Wednesday, from a series of attacks that targeted mostly Shiite neighbourhoods throughout the Iraqi capital overnight.

A series of car bombings, suicide bombings, mortar attacks and explosions from improvised devices rocked Baghdad and forced many residents to … Original article on : Toll in Baghdad bombings reaches 64.

Greece stops all overseas air shipments after bombs found

ATHENS – Greece stopped all overseas air shipments of mail and packages for 48 hours Wednesday following a wave of parcel bomb attacks at embassies, believed to be the work of far-left militants.

The blasts came as a cargo plane from Athens was forced to land at Bologna airport after Italian authorities were notified that … Read more »»».

Four Maoists arrested after gunfight in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Four Maoists were arrested after a gunfight in Orissa’s Gajapati district Friday, police said.

“Police spotted a Maoist camp in a forested area near the district’s Adaba area. They retaliated after the rebels fired at them,” District Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Arora told IANS.
Four rebels, aged between 20-35, were captured after the …. Original article : Four Maoists arrested after gunfight in Orissa.

Maoists kill two in Bihar

PATNA – Maoists shot dead two people and seriously injured three in a Bihar village early Friday, police said.

“A group of armed Maoists surrounded Baratand village in Banka district and opened fire. Two people were killed and three seriously injured,” a police official said.
“The injured were admitted to a hospital,” he added.
… Read more : Maoists kill two in Bihar.

US slaps sanctions on LeT, JeM

WASHINGTON – On the eve of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India, the US treasury has slapped sanctions on the financial and support networks of Pakistan-based terror oytfits Lashkar-e-Taeba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

The treasury also targeted Azam Cheema, who helped train operatives for the November 2008 Mumbai attacks and was the “mastermind” behind [..] Read the original article: here.

Three GNLA rebels arrested

SHILLONG – Meghalaya police Thursday arrested three top rebels of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) in western Meghalaya, police said.

Albin Ch Momin alias Gracepa, Johan T. Sangma and Rakesh T. Sangma, who are from the intelligence wing of the GNLA, were arrested from Williamnagar, the district headquarters of East Garo Hills.
“All [..] Read the original article: here.

LTTE member arrested in Germany

BERLIN – Germany has arrested an alleged member of the former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), an armed Sri Lanka group, on terrorism charges, prosecutors said in Karlsruhe.

The German national, 35, was arrested the previous day at Dusseldorf Airport when he arrived by plane from Madagascar, which had deported him. His name has … Read more »».

Bomb was only 17 minutes away from detonation: French minister

PARIS – One of the parcel bombs from Yemen found on US-bound cargo flights last week was only 17 minutes away from exploding when it was defused, French Interior Minister Brice Hortefeux said Thursday.

Two booby-trapped printer cartridges, suspected of having been prepared by people with links to Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), …. Read the original article : Bomb was only 17 minutes away from detonation: French minister.

Over 100 Taliban militants surrender in Afghanistan

KABUL – Over 100 Taliban militants have laid down arms and surrendered to the government in Afghanistan over the past few weeks, a senior police official has said.

“More than 100 armed anti-government militants, including several key commanders, have laid down their weapons and joined the peace process in Kunduz, Takhar, Baghlan and Faryab provinces …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Over 100 Taliban militants surrender in Afghanistan.

Greek police detonate French Embassy package

ATHENS – Bomb experts in Athens Thursday detonated a suspicious package addressed to the French Embassy, amid a wave of mail bombings that have targeted diplomatic institutions in the Greek capital and European leaders, reports said.

Police also detected another three suspicious packages at a courier company in the Athens suburb of Markopoulo.
Officials said …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Greek police detonate French Embassy package.

Maoists deny abducting intelligence officer in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Maoist guerrillas Thursday denied their involvement in the abduction of an Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer and a non-governmental organisation (NGO) activist from West Bengal’s Purulia district last month.

“We have come to know from the media that an intelligence branch inspector and a school teacher have been abducted. But we are not involved,” …. Original source : Maoists deny abducting intelligence officer in West Bengal.

India asks Nepal about clandestine Maoist training

KATHMANDU – The Indian government has taken up with the Nepal government the issue of Nepal’s former Maoist guerrillas providing arms and political training to India’s Maoists and has provided what it says are details about the training.

The Indian embassy in Kathmandu sent a letter to Nepal’s Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala, Home Minister Bhim … Original article on : India asks Nepal about clandestine Maoist training.

Yemeni court orders ‘forcible arrest’ of US-born cleric

SANA’A – A Yemeni state security court Saturday ordered the “forcible arrest” of US-born cleric Anwar al-Awlaqi, wanted by the US dead or alive for links to Al Qaeda.

The order was issued by the court’s presiding judge Mouhssein Alwan during the second hearing in the trial in absentia of al-Awlaqi who is charged with … Read more : Yemeni court orders ‘forcible arrest’ of US-born cleric.

US agencies forewarned about Headley’s terror ties

WASHINGTON – US authorities have found at least five cases in which intelligence agencies were warned that David Coleman Headley, a suspect in November 2008 Mumbai attacks, was training or working with Pakistani militants, a media report said Saturday.

According to the Washington Post, a review being conducted for the director of national intelligence (DNI) … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US agencies forewarned about Headley’s terror ties.

Oscar Grant-Johannes Mehserle Case Controversy Rages

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Robert J Perry sentenced former BART police officer, Johannes Mehserle to two years in prison in the Oscar Grant shooting case. The much awaited sentencing, raised the ire of the supporters who fought for the cause of justice for the victim. They found the … Read : Oscar Grant-Johannes Mehserle Case Controversy Rages.

Pakistan gives another 26/11 dossier to India

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Friday handed over to India its 13th dossier on the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, a day before US President Barack Obama’s India visit.

Rahul Kulshreshth, deputy high commissioner of India in Islamabad, was called to the Foreign Office Friday by Director General (South Asia) Afrasiab and handed over ‘Pakistan’s Dossier No.13′ about … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan gives another 26/11 dossier to India.

Al Qaeda claims responsibility for parcel bomb plot

WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula has claimed responsibility for the recently uncovered attempt to destroy cargo planes with parcel bombs, according to a private terrorism watchdog.

The Yemeni-based group, which is affiliated with Osama bin Laden’s Al Qaeda terrorist network, posted a statement on militant websites Friday claiming to be behind the … Read more »».

Over 90 killed in Pakistan terror bombings, plane crash (Intro Roundup)

ISLAMABAD – At least 93 people were killed and scores wounded in two terrorist attacks on mosques and a plane crash in Pakistan Friday.

At least 67 people were killed and over 100 wounded when a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device in a mosque near Kohat town in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, … Original article on : Over 90 killed in Pakistan terror bombings, plane crash (Intro Roundup).

Second Pakistan mosque blast kills five

ISLAMABAD – At least five people were killed and 36 others injured in a second mosque blast during Friday prayers in northwest Pakistan, officials said.

Senior Superintendent of Police Ijaz Khan said it was a “timer device that exploded when around 70 people were offering Isha (night) prayers” at a mosque in Bada Beer area …. Read the original article : Second Pakistan mosque blast kills five.

Another mosque blast in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Another blast took place at a mosque in northwest Pakistan Friday, hours after a suicide bomb attack left at least 60 people dead in a mosque in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a media report said.

The latest blast occurred at a mosque in the Suleman Khel area of Peshawar, Geo TV reported, …. Source article : Another mosque blast in Pakistan.

Family of Bengal’s abducted duo suspect Maoist hand

KOLKATA – Families of the two people abducted last month from Purulia district of West Bengal Friday refused to believe that Maoists were not involved in the crime, a day after the guerrillas denied they had kidnapped them.

“It is very surprising that the denial from the Maoists came Nov 4, 12 days after they … Read : Family of Bengal’s abducted duo suspect Maoist hand.

Danish police confirm German embassy parcel was harmless

COPENHAGEN/BERLIN – Danish bomb squad experts were called Friday to the German embassy to investigate a suspicious parcel there but quickly determined that the package was harmless.

Copenhagen police said the specialists, aided by sniffer dogs, examined the parcel in the embassy yard and determined that the package was not dangerous.
The package, which had …. Read the original article : here.

Osama, Al Qaeda guide Yemen plots from Pakistan

WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), the Yemen-based group linked to the US-bound parcel bombs, was believed to have been provided strategic and philosophical guidance from Osama bin Laden and other Al Qaeda leaders from Pakistan.

According to the Wall Street Journal, increased communication and collaboration between Al Qaeda militants in Yemen … Read more »».

60 killed, over 100 wounded in Pakistan mosque blast (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – At least 60 people were killed and more than 100 injured Friday when a mosque was hit by a powerful blast by a suicide bomber near Kohat town in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, state television PTV reported.

The blast targeted a mosque in Darra Adam Khel area under Sapeena police station when … Read more »»».

35 killed in suicide blast in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 35 people were killed and more than 60 injured Friday in a suicide attack at a mosque in northwest Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, state television PTV said.

The blast occurred in Akhurwal area in Darra Adam Khel near Kohat town.
“The blast targeted a mosque in a populated area in Sapeena … Read more >>.

US sends drones to hunt for Al Qaeda in Yemen

WASHINGTON – The US has deployed drones to hunt down Al Qaeda militants in Yemen for the first time in years, said US officials.

The use of unmanned spy plane is part of a campaign against an Al Qaeda branch that has claimed responsibility for several terror attempts on US targets, including the two parcel …. Original article : US sends drones to hunt for Al Qaeda in Yemen.

Abducted JD-U worker’s body found in Bihar

PATNA – The body of a worker of Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U), who was abducted by the Maoists, was found in Gaya district early Sunday, police said.

The body of Amrendra Prasad, one of the two JD-U workers abducted by the guerrillas, was found near a village in Gaya, about 100 km from here. … Read more : Abducted JD-U worker’s body found in Bihar.

Al Qaeda targets Christmas, plans to make toy bomb

LONDON – Al Qaeda’s bomb makers are believed to be planting explosives in Christmas toys bound for Europe and the US that would be timed to explode once they are in stores, a media report said Sunday.

British intelligence agencies believe Al Qaeda’s warlords, including its chief bomb maker Ibrahim Hassan al-Asiri in Yemen, plan … Read more >>.

No terror camps in Pakistani Kashmir: Minister

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has rejected a recent media report that spoke about the existence of terrorist training camps in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Foreign office spokesman Abdul Basit Saturday termed the report in the British media as “baseless and malicious”, Online news agency reported.
He said such “groundless reports” are aimed at “undermining the legitimate struggle of …. Read the original article : No terror camps in Pakistani Kashmir: Minister.

“I look forward to deepening counter-terror cooperation when I meet Prime Minister (Manmohan) Singh,” Obama said after signing the visitors’ book at the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower Hotel here.
India and the US were working more …. Original article : India, US to deepen counter-terror cooperation: Obama.

Obama pays homage to Mumbai terror victims

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama Saturday paid homage to victims of the Mumbai terror attack of 2008, saying those who organised it needed to be punished.

Addressing families of some of the dead at the Taj Mahal and Palace Tower Hotel, one of the targets of the Pakistani terrorists, Obama said he “will never …. Original source : Obama pays homage to Mumbai terror victims.