Crime Watch – Weekly Newsletter for November 22-29, 2010

Children safer in Kabul than London: NATO envoy

LONDON – A British diplomat has sparked fury after claiming that Kabul is a safer place for children than Britain’s major cities.

Afghanistan has one of the world’s highest child mortality rates and has seen over three decades of war and civil strife.
Mark Sedwill, a former British ambassador to Afghanistan and now the NATO …. Source  : Children safer in Kabul than London: NATO envoy.

Security of Salwa Judum leaders raised after killing

RAIPUR – The security of dozens of Salwa Judum men has been stepped up in Dantewada and Bijapur districts of Chhattisgarh after a key leader of the controversial civil militia movement was killed by Maoists, police said Monday.

“The security of Salwa Judum leaders has been scaled up, they have been asked … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Security of Salwa Judum leaders raised after killing.

Suspected Maoists kill two CPI-M supporters in Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists gunned down two supporters of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said Monday.

We were informed that two bodies of CPI-M supporters were found in Dhangori village of Jhargram sub-division Monday morning. A police team has been rushed to the spot, said Additional Superintendent …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Coalition forces kill 18 suspected Taliban in Afghanistan

KABUL – NATO-led forces killed at least 18 suspected insurgents in firefights and airstrikes in Afghanistan over the weekend, the alliance said Sunday.

At least 15 of the insurgents were killed in the Sangin and Kajaki districts of the southern province of Helmand Saturday in two separate airstrikes, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) …. Original article  : Coalition forces kill 18 suspected Taliban in Afghanistan.

Eight injured in Kashmir blast

SRINAGAR – Eight people were injured Sunday in a powerful grenade blast in Bejibehara town in south Kashmir, police said.

A senior police officer said separatist guerrillas tossed a powerful hand grenade in the main market in Bejibehara town, 50 km from Srinagar on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, Sunday afternoon.
“The grenade fell on the … Read more >>.

Five killed in drone attack in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least five suspected militants were killed Sunday in a US drone attack in Pakistan’s North Waziristan region bordering Afghanistan.

A pilotless US drone fired two missiles at a vehicle near Mirali village in the tribal area, Dunya TV reported. It was not known whether any high-profile target was killed.
US drones have …. Source  : Five killed in drone attack in Pakistan.

Al Qaeda, Taliban have joined hands in Pakistan: Malik

ISLAMABAD – Banned militant outfits Al Qaeda, Taliban and Lashkar-i-Jhangvi have joined hands to carry out terrorist attacks in Pakistan, Interior Minister Rehman Malik said Sunday.

But the militant outfits were now feeling the heat as the Pakistan army has launched a massive crackdown against them in the northwestern areas as well as other parts …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Al Qaeda, Taliban have joined hands in Pakistan: Malik.

Kashmir blast: Injured girl dies in hospital

SRINAGAR – An eight-year-old girl, critically injured in a grenade blast in south Kashmir Sunday, died in hospital here Monday, police said.

Arifa, who had received multiple splinter injuries in the powerful blast at Bijbehara in Anantnag district, succumbed to her injuries in the Soura medical institute, a police spokesman said.
The condition of one [..] Read the original article: here.

Drone attack kills five in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least five suspected militants were killed Monday in a US drone attack in Pakistan’s North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan.

Security officials confirmed the attack in which a US drone fired four missiles at a vehicle in Mir Ali area.
This was the third drone attack in Mir Ali area within a …. Original source  : Drone attack kills five in Pakistan.

Suspected Maoists kill two CPI-M supporters

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists gunned down two supporters of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said Monday.

“We were informed that two bodies of CPI-M supporters were found in Dhangori village of Jhargram sub-division Monday morning,” said Additional Superintendent of Police (Operations) Mukesh Kumar.
The victims were identified …. Source  : Suspected Maoists kill two CPI-M supporters.

Pakistan may delay Taliban operation

ISLAMABAD – A military offensive in Pakistan’s North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan could be delayed due to “the widening role of India in the Afghan affairs” and the “differences in perceptions” over the scheduled withdrawal of NATO forces from that country, a media report said Monday.

The Pakistani government might delay the offensive by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan may delay Taliban operation.

CRPF kill 9 Maoists in Bastar gunfight, rebels strike back (Second Lead)

RAIPUR – Claiming it as a major success, paramilitary troopers in Chhattisgarh Tuesday killed nine Maoists in a fierce gun battle in the rebel stronghold of Bastar. But the Maoists hit back, killing two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers in a powerful blast.

The 111th battalion of the CRPF fought a fierce gunbattle with … Original source on Gaea Times at : CRPF kill 9 Maoists in Bastar gunfight, rebels strike back (Second Lead).

India fears revival of LTTE, extends ban

NEW DELHI – India has extended its ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as it fears the revival of the outlawed group, a senior official said here Tuesday.

“There is still a threat from the LTTE. The ban has been extended by the home ministry, the official, who did not wish to … Read more : India fears revival of LTTE, extends ban.

10 suspected Islamist terrorists held in Europe

BRUSSELS – An Islamist terrorist cell planning an attack on Belgium was dismantled after 10 people were detained in Antwerp, the Netherlands and Germany, Belgian police announced Tuesday.

In a statement, authorities said that investigations launched in late 2009 had unearthed preparations for a terrorist attack on an unspecified target in Belgium, based on information … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 10 suspected Islamist terrorists held in Europe.

Taliban leader in secret Afghan talks was an impostor: Report

KABUL – The secret talks between the Afghanistan government and the Taliban to end the conflict in the country – that were “showing promise” – seem to have hit a dead end, with a revelation that the militant leader at the other end of the table was an imposter.

“In an episode that could … Read more »»».

‘Kasab appears resigned to his fate’

MUMBAI – Mohammed Ajmal Kasab, the sole survivor from the 10 Pakistani terrorists who attacked Mumbai 26/11, appears resigned to his fate and says he will “reap as he sowed”, Maharshtra Leader of Opposition Eknath Khadse said Tuesday after a visit to the Arthur Road Jail.

Khadse, along with state Home Minister … Read more : ‘Kasab appears resigned to his fate’.

Rebel leader nabbed in Meghalaya, abducted official to be freed

SHILLONG – A top commander of the Meghalaya rebel outfit Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) has been arrested, police said Tuesday, even as the group announced it would free an abducted official by Wednesday.

Sengwan Marak, the area commander of the GNLA, was arrested Monday night from a safe house in Danaidubi area of the … Read more : Rebel leader nabbed in Meghalaya, abducted official to be freed.

Al-Qaeda ‘banker’ killed by security forces

Algiers, Nov 23 (IANS/AKI) Algerian security forces have killed a high-ranking Al-Qaeda militant known as the group’s “banker”.

Izza Rezki, also known as Abou Djaffar, was killed Friday around 50 km from the Algerian capital Algiers, according to Algerian newspaper al-Watan.
Djaffar was around 40 years old and was involved in armed Islamic militancy … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Al-Qaeda ‘banker’ killed by security forces.

We’ll be there, say 26/11 heroes still on duty

MUMBAI – They were on duty that day when terrorists struck in Mumbai two years ago. The memories of 26/11 run deep, but policeman Sanjay Govilkar, railway constable Jillu Yadav and announcers Bablu Kumar and Vishnu Zende, who saved hundreds of lives, are still at their job – more resolutely than before.

While assistant police …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : We’ll be there, say 26/11 heroes still on duty.

CRPF turns heat on Maoists, nine killed in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Nine Maoists were Tuesday killed in a fierce gun battle with Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers in a forested pocket of the rebels’ stronghold Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, police said.

The killings were reported from Jagargunda area of Dantewada district. The casualty site is located over 500 km south from …. Read the original article  : here.

Ravi Inder Singh Detained

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- IAS officer Ravi Inder Singh was detained by Delhi police on Monday for allegedly leaking sensitive details relating to mobile number portability to some of the leading telecom companies. The 1994-batch Indian Administrative Service officer working with the Home Ministry, was under surveillance for a period of one month before …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ravi Inder Singh Detained.

Nine Maoists gunned down in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – As many as nine Maoists were Tuesday killed in a fierce gunfight with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers in the rebels’ stronghold in a forested pocket of Chhattisgarh’s violence-hit Bastar region, police said.

The killings were reported from Jagargunda area of Dantewada district. The casualty site is located over …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nine Maoists gunned down in Chhattisgarh.

Kashmiri militants’ wives, children can return under new policy

JAMMU – Militants who return home from Pakistani administered Kashmir as well as their wives and children will benefit from a rehabilitation policy approved by the Jammu and Kashmir government, say official sources.

The government Monday sanctioned a rehabilitation policy for militants who had crossed over to Pakistani Kashmir for arms training but now …. Original article  : Kashmiri militants’ wives, children can return under new policy.

Rehabilitation policy for Kashmiri militants anti-national: BJP

JAMMU – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday slammed the Jammu and Kashmir government for approving what it termed an “anti-national” policy aimed at the return of Kashmiri militants from Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Responding to the government’s approval of a rehabilitation policy to grant amnesty to the militants and facilitate their return and give financial aid …. Original source  : Rehabilitation policy for Kashmiri militants anti-national: BJP.

US brands three LeT leaders as global terrorists

WASHINGTON – The United States has designated three top leaders of the Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), blamed for the Mumbai terrorist attacks, as global terrorists and slapped sanctions on one of its affiliates. The move came on the eve of the second anniversary of the 26/11 assault.

The Secretary of State, in … Original source on Gaea Times at : US brands three LeT leaders as global terrorists.

Terror attack shows Karachi is in serious danger: Report

Karachi, Nov 25 (IANS/AKI) The bombing of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) police compound in Karachi earlier this month demonstrates that the port city is in grave risk, according to the classified conclusions of a report on the Nov 11 attack.

“The report expressed the fears of the existence of very high profile militants in Karachi …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Terror attack shows Karachi is in serious danger: Report.

Rebels free Meghalaya official after 56 days

SHILLONG – A senior Meghalaya transport official and his driver who were kidnapped by Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebels have been released unharmed after 56 days of captivity, police said Thursday.

R. Syngkon, district transport officer of East Garo Hills district, and his driver
Wan-bormi Syngkon were freed by the captors Wednesday night …. Read the original article  : here.

Militants kill five civilians in Afghanistan

KABUL – Five Afghan village elders were killed and four wounded when militants attacked a vehicle in the country’s northern Faryab province, Xinhua reported Thursday.

The insurgents struck the vehicle with a rocket-propelled grenade Wednesday, NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said.
No one has so far claimed responsibility for the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Militants kill five civilians in Afghanistan.

Germany purges air-cargo industry after Yemen bombs

BERLIN – In a purge of the German air cargo industry, three companies lost their licences Wednesday.

Authorities cracked down after the bomb scare at the end of October, when a time bomb sent from Yemen as an air parcel passed through a transshipment depot in Cologne undetected.
It was only intercepted in England after … Read more »»».

Five dead, six injured in separate attacks in Iraq

MOSUL – Five people, including four soldiers, were killed and six others were injured Wednesday in two separate attacks in Iraq’s northern city of Mosul, security sources said.

Four soldiers were killed and six people were injured by a bomb blast in the neighbourhood of al-Dawassa in central Mosul.
Elsewhere in Mosul, a civilian man …. Read the original article  : Five dead, six injured in separate attacks in Iraq.

Mumbai Chabad House ‘home’ for Baby Moshe, say grandparents

MUMBAI – Baby Moshe, the cherubic face of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, still remembers his slain parents, Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg, and considers the Chabad House here as his home even as he grows up in Israel, his grandparents said here Wednesday.

Moshe’s grandparents Nachman and Frieda Holtzberg visited the Chabad House on … Original article on : Mumbai Chabad House ‘home’ for Baby Moshe, say grandparents.

Suspense prevails over abducted Meghalaya official

SHILLONG – Suspense prevailed over the release of an abducted Meghalaya official and his driver, kidnapped by Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebels Sep 30, as police and his family Wednesday said they had no information about him.

On Tuesday, the GNLA’s military wing chief Sohan D. Shira announced through an English daily that it … Read : Suspense prevails over abducted Meghalaya official.

US court summons ISI chief in Mumbai terror case

WASHINGTON – A US court has summoned top officials of Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as also the alleged masterminds of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in response to a case filed by relatives of two American victims.

Summons were issued by a New York court to ISI’s powerful chief, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Shuja … Read more >>>.

Nine arrest warrants issued after Belgian anti-terror operations

BRUSSELS – Nine arrest warrants were issued in the wake of two separate police operations targeting suspected Islamist terrorist cells in Belgium, local media reported Wednesday.

Prosecutors quoted by the Belga news agency said warrants were issued for all seven people who were detained Tuesday in Antwerp – as part of a three-country sting also … Original article on : Nine arrest warrants issued after Belgian anti-terror operations.

Car bomb kills 15 Shia Muslims in Yemen

SANA’A – At least 15 people were killed and more than 20 injured after a car bomb struck a religious procession in northwestern Yemen Wednesday, tribal sources said.

The sources said the victims were all followers of the Shia Muslim rebel al-Houthi group.
Witnesses said the car exploded as a convoy carrying dozens of Shia …. Original article  : Car bomb kills 15 Shia Muslims in Yemen.

Nepal’s Maoist chief urges war on India

KATHMANDU – Amidst the Indian government’s growing concern about the crisis in Nepal and a renewed war on its own Maoist guerrillas, Nepal’s Maoist supremo Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has identified India as the arch enemy and urged the party to brace for a war with the southern neighbour, reports said Wednesday.

The 55-year-old former … Read more >>.

26/11 was a unique emotional experience: Doctor

MUMBAI – He is used to seeing blood and gore every day, but the mayhem wreaked by terrorists in Mumbai was “a unique emotional experience” to Keki Turel. The leading Mumbai medico even remembers the sequence of patients he operated upon one by one – and their words.

Turel practises at the famous Bombay … Original source on Gaea Times at : 26/11 was a unique emotional experience: Doctor.

Taliban true followers of Islamic ideology: Pakistan minister

ISLAMABAD – The Taliban are “the true followers of Islamic ideology”, says a Pakistan minister who also believes that “America is the biggest terrorist of the world”.

According to federal Minister for Tourism Maulana Attaur Rehman: Ulema and Taliban are the true followers of Islamic ideology and America is the biggest terrorist of the world, …. Read the original article  : Taliban true followers of Islamic ideology: Pakistan minister.

Safe militant havens in Pakistan slow Afghan war: US report

WASHINGTON – A new US Defence Department report says Pakistan’s failure to shut down safe havens for militants and the Taliban’s ability to adapt are slowing efforts to reverse the momentum in the Afghan war.

As insurgent groups continue to use Pakistan as a staging area for cross-border operations, it raises new questions about Pakistan’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Safe militant havens in Pakistan slow Afghan war: US report.

Boston airport evacuates terminal for suspect bags

WASHINGTON – A Boston bomb squad Tuesday was checking out two duffel bags at a cargo terminal at Logan Airport after K-9 units trained to sniff out explosives raised alarm.

A spokesman from the local transport agency, Massport, told the Boston Globe that a K-9 dog from the federal Transportation Security administration “got a hit” …. Read the original article  : Boston airport evacuates terminal for suspect bags.

Around 20 Germans training as terrorists in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Around 20 Germans are being groomed as terrorists in Pakistan camps close to the border with Afghanistan, according to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Most of them are Muslims who acquired German nationality, but there are also German converts to Islam, an ISI officer told DPA on condition of anonymity.
US citizens and Britons …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rehabilitation of minor female Maoist cadre promised

KOLKATA – The police Tuesday said it will make arrangements for the rehabilitation and education of Sukurmani Soren alias Lakshmi, who was recently rescued after being recruited in the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) ranks eight months ago in West Bengal.

“Arrangements are being made for her rehabilitation, including education, vocational training and health care. … Original article on : Rehabilitation of minor female Maoist cadre promised.

Munda urges Maoists to cooperate in panchayat polls

RANCHI – Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda Friday appealed to the Maoists to cooperate in the panchayat elections beginning Saturday as instances have come to light of the rebels forcing people to withdraw their nominations from the polls.

“Panchayat polls are taking place after 32 years and we appeal to strayed people (Maoists) to join …. Original source  : Munda urges Maoists to cooperate in panchayat polls.

Chidamnbaram calls for modernising country’s police forces

MUMBAI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram Friday called for modernising and equipping the country’s police forces to ensure that they are ready to tackle challenges like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

Speaking at a function here on the second anniversary of the 26/11 attack, Chidambaram said that in the past two years, the country … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chidamnbaram calls for modernising country’s police forces.

Pakistan has not kept promises on 26/11: Chidambaram

MUMBAI – Pakistan has failed to live up to its promises to bring to book the masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Friday on the second anniversary of the mayhem.

Pakistan had made many promises, including arresting the seven accused in the 26/11 attack, Chidambaram said at a function … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan has not kept promises on 26/11: Chidambaram.

Tribute to 26/11 victims – sculpted in sand

PURI – It’s a sand sculpture depicting the famous Gateway of India encapsulated in two huge open palms, and it was here that hundreds of tourists and residents Friday paid tribute to victims of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai.

People from various walks of life offered floral tributes to the 5 foot high sand sculpture …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tribute to 26/11 victims – sculpted in sand.

PM vows to bring to justice 26/11 perpetrators

NEW DELHI – Saluting the “courage, unity and resolve” of Mumbaikars, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh pledged on the second anniversary of the 26/11 attacks Friday to redouble efforts to “bring the perpetrators of this crime against humanity to justice”.

Two years ago this day, Mumbai was subjected to a brutal terrorist attack that claimed …. Read the original article  : PM vows to bring to justice 26/11 perpetrators.

India asks Pakistan for speedy 26/11 justice

COLOMBO – Underlining its commitment to resolving all bilateral issues through dialogue, India Friday asked Pakistan to dismantle the terror machinery and bring the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks to speedy justice.

“On the second anniversary of the barbaric terrorist attack in Mumbai, the nation pays respectful homage to its sons, daughters and foreign … Read more »».

Mumbai pays tribute to 26/11 victims

MUMBAI – Two years after 10 Pakistani terrorists killed 166 people in an audacious attack here, India’s financial capital Friday paid homage to the victims of the 26/11 carnage that stunned the world.

Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, state Home Minister R.R. Patil, other ministers, top police and civil officials laid … Read more >>.

Mumbai pays homage to 26/11 victims

MUMBAI – Two years after 10 Pakistani terrorists unleashed mayhem killing 166 people here, India’s financial capital Friday paid homage to victims of the audacious 26/11 attack that stunned the world.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Home Minister R.R. Patil, other ministers, top police and civil officials laid wreaths … Read more »»».

Canada asked to raise Kanishka bombing ex-gratia from $25,000

TORONTO – The Indian Overseas Congress in the US has urged Canada to raise its proposed ex-gratia of $25,000 each to the families of 329 victims of the Air India Kanishka bombing in 1985.

In a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the NRI body has said that the victim families of the Kanishka …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Blast rocks Russia’s North Caucasus

Moscow, Nov 26 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A powerful blast was heard in Nalchik, the capital of Russia’s North Caucasus republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, but no casualties were reported, a police source said Friday.

The explosion was heard at 23.58 local time (20:58 GMT) Thursday.
“The blast occurred when a police car was passing by,” the source said. … Read : Blast rocks Russia’s North Caucasus.

Netherlands seeks arrest warrant for fugitive SS guard

THE HAGUE – Dutch justice authorities Thursday issued a Europe-wide arrest warrant for a former SS camp guard accused of murdering at least 22 Jews and who has been living for more than half a century in Germany.

A spokesman for prosecutors in The Hague said the move underscores their determination to bring Dutch-born Klaas …. Original article  : Netherlands seeks arrest warrant for fugitive SS guard.

Greek anarchist group claims responsibility for parcel bombs

ATHENS – A Greek anarchist group claimed responsibility Thursday for more than a dozen parcel bombs sent to European leaders and embassies causing widespread alarm earlier this month, reports said.

In a 13-page proclamation the group, Conspiracy of Cells, claimed responsibility for parcel bombs sent to eight embassies in the Greek capital as well as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Greek anarchist group claims responsibility for parcel bombs.

CBI seeks transfer of Sohrabuddin case outside Gujarat

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Thursday moved the Supreme Court saying that free and fair trial in the Sohrabuddin Shah staged shootout case was not possible in Gujarat and the case should be transferred to Mumbai.

The final report of the CBI submitted to the apex court in a sealed envelop …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CBI seeks transfer of Sohrabuddin case outside Gujarat.

India asks Pakistan for time-bound justice for 26/11

NEW DELHI – A day before the second anniversary of the Mumbai terror attacks, India Thursday regretted lack of substantial progress in the 26/11 probe and pressed Pakistan for a time-bound fulfiliment of its pledge to bring the perpetrators of the carnage to justice.

Regretting the lack of substantive and verifiable progress” in the 26/11 …. Read the original article  : India asks Pakistan for time-bound justice for 26/11.

Three terrorists killed in daylong Kashmir gun batle

JAMMU – Three terrorists were killed and a soldier was injured in a day-long gun battle in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir Thursday.

An army spokesman said two terrorists have been identified as Abu Usman and Abu Ali, both Pakistani nationals, who were active in the area for the past eight to nine years. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Three terrorists killed in daylong Kashmir gun batle.

People’s resolve and resilience more powerful than terrorists: Clinton

WASHINGTON – Saying that the “resolve and resilience” of the people is more powerful than terrorist guns and bombs, the United States Thursday assured that it stands in solidarity with India as it remembers the victims of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

“Now, as then, the American people stand in solidarity with the people of … Original source on Gaea Times at : People’s resolve and resilience more powerful than terrorists: Clinton.

Chidambaram to pay homage to Mumbai terror attack victims

MUMBAI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram will Friday lead the city in paying homage to the martyrs and victims of the Nov 26, 2008 Mumbai terror attack here, officials said.

Chidambaram, along with Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Murli Deora and Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, will take part in a function at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram to pay homage to Mumbai terror attack victims.

Don’t drag ISI into 26/11 trial, says Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – It was “improper to unnecessarily drag Pakistani intelligence agency ISI” into the Mumbai terror attack trial, Pakistan said Thursday, a day after a US court summoned the ISI chief and other officials in response to a case filed by relatives of two American 26/11 victims.

At his weekly briefing in Islamabad, Pakistani Foreign [..] Read the original article: here.

Some seminaries promoting militancy in Pakistan: Rehman Malik

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rehman Malik Thursday said seminaries “belonging to a particular school of thought” were promoting militancy in the country.

“We have more than 20,000 seminaries providing religious education to the students in the country and are making an effort to register all of these with the relevant authorities”, Malik … Read more >>>.

Omar defends rehabilitation policy for militants

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday said the government’s rehabilitation policy aimed at the return of Kashmiri militants from Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir was beneficial to the state.

Dismissing the charges of opposition parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), that the policy — given the green signal by his government …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Omar defends rehabilitation policy for militants.

Britain steps up security, fearing Mumbai-like attack

LONDON – Gun-totting British policemen have been deployed in many shopping centres in Britain to combat the threat of a Mumbai-like massacre ahead of the Christmas holidays, a media report said Saturday.

Armed patrols have been stepped up to protect potential terrorist targets such as shopping centres. Among them are the Westfield mall in Shepherd’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Britain steps up security, fearing Mumbai-like attack.

No takers for Kashmiri militants’ rehabilitation policy?

JAMMU – The much-hyped rehabilitation policy for Kashmiri militants may turn out to be a big disappointment for Jammu and Kashmir. Not a single application has been received till now, officials said, adding that cumbersome paperwork and time-consuming procedures may kill it altogether.

Under the policy, adopted Monday, militants wishing to return home from … Original article on : No takers for Kashmiri militants’ rehabilitation policy?.

Sri Lanka far from post-war harmony, says activist

NEW DELHI – Sri Lanka is not doing enough to win the hearts and minds of Tamils and achieve genuine ethnic harmony following the end of the war, says an Indian activist after visiting the island nation.

“It is an uphill journey. But the authorities are refusing to make even a beginning,” Sarvjeet Singh of … Original article on : Sri Lanka far from post-war harmony, says activist.

17 insurgents killed in Afghanistan, says NATO

KABUL – NATO-led forces and Afghan troops killed at least 17 suspected militants in operations in southern and eastern Afghanistan, the alliance said Saturday.

The most deadly operation was conducted Friday night by Afghan and foreign soldiers in the Sherzad district of the eastern province of Nangarhar to find a Taliban leader after they received …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 17 insurgents killed in Afghanistan, says NATO.

Kashmir stone pelters, separatists have nexus with LeT: Police

SRINAGAR – In a significant development, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have said some government employees were involved in the separatist protests during the last five months and the separatists have a nexus with the terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

S.M. Sahai, Inspector General of Kashmir Police (IGP), Friday evening also told the media here that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kashmir stone pelters, separatists have nexus with LeT: Police.

Two Maoists surrender in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Two Maoist guerrillas, including a woman, surrendered in Ranchi Saturday, police said.

According to police, the Maoist guerrillas – Sunita Kumari and Trilochan Munda -surrendered before Ranchi Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Praveen Singh.
Both were wanted in more than 13 criminal cases. Sunita is the first woman Maoist to surrender in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Five militants among six killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A security official and five militants were killed Friday in a clash at a security checkpost in Pakistan’s Orakzai tribal region.

The fighting started when militants attacked a checkpost in the Mishti area of Orakzai Agency.
The security forces fired in retaliation that “killed at least five suspected terrorists”, Samaa TV reported.
…. Original article  : Five militants among six killed in Pakistan.

Saudi Arabia arrests 149 Al Qaeda terror suspects

RIYADH – Saudi Arabia has arrested 149 alleged member of Al Qaeda terrorist rings over the last eight months, the kingdom’s interior ministry said Friday.

Among those arrested were 25 foreigners, Mansur al-Turki, a spokesman for the ministry, told a press conference in Riyadh.
According to the ministry, the arrests thwarted 10 planned attacks before … Read : Saudi Arabia arrests 149 Al Qaeda terror suspects.

Maoists set truck on fire

RAIPUR – Maoists Friday set a truck on fire on a national highway in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, police said.

About 30 Maoists intercepted the truck loaded with coconuts in Dantewada district and set it on fire near Sukma, some 440 km south from here.
The truck was on its way to Korea … Read more : Maoists set truck on fire.

US drone attack kills four in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Four suspected militants were killed in a US drone attack in northwest Pakistan Friday, reports Xinhua.

The pilotless aircraft fired three missiles at a vehicle suspected of carrying militants in Miranshah area of North Waziristan tribal region.
The region, close to the border with Afghanistan, is a stronghold of Taliban and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mumbai remembers, prays for 26/11 victims (Roundup)

MUMBAI – Mumbai paused in its busy tracks Friday to remember the carnage of two years ago and paid homage to the martyrs and victims of the terror attack that left 166 people dead. From signature campaigns demanding the immediate hanging of Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone Pakistani terrorist caught alive during the mayhem, to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mumbai remembers, prays for 26/11 victims (Roundup).

Bodo leader ready for unconditional talks

GUWAHATI – The National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) is ready for unconditional peace talks with New Delhi and even keep the demand for sovereignty or independence out of the process, chief of the outlawed outfit Ranjan Daimary has said.

We are ready to discuss any issue and even leave the issue of sovereignty …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bodo leader ready for unconditional talks.

Rs.25 crore plan for 60 Maoist-hit districts: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – The government will give Rs.25 crore to each of the 60 Maoist-affected districts in central and east India to ensure that the benefits of development reach the poor tribals, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Friday.

The special development plan that will be implemented over two years (2010-11 to 2011-12) envisages governance reforms … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rs.25 crore plan for 60 Maoist-hit districts: Chidambaram.

26/11 brings India, Israel closer

NEW DELHI – Two years after the 26/11 terror spree, baby Moshe, whose parents were killed in the attack on the Jewish centre in Mumbai, is growing up fine in Israel. And the ties between India and Israel have grown stronger than ever as the two countries bolster their secuity dialogue and firm up a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 26/11 brings India, Israel closer.

No general amnesty in Kashmir rehabilitation policy

JAMMU – Contrary to widespread impression, there is no general amnesty clause in the Jammu and Kashmir rehabilitation policy for militants returning from Pakistan and Pakistan administered Kashmir, officials say.

“No general amnesty is envisaged under this policy, a senior officer of the government clarified to IANS Friday. He said the terms and conditions under …. Source  : No general amnesty in Kashmir rehabilitation policy.

Terror bid at Pakistan parliament foiled, two arrested

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani security officials have arrested two suspected militants who were allegedly planning to carry out suicide attacks on the parliament building and a mosque in Islamabad.

Interior Minister Rehman Malik confirmed to the media that “two suspects have been arrested in a major crackdown by the security forces in the suburbs of Islamabad”. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Terror bid at Pakistan parliament foiled, two arrested.

40 killed in Yemen car bomb attack

SANAA – Forty people were killed Friday in a car bomb attack on a Shia procession in northern Yemen, Xinhua reports.

The attack took place in the Sihaar district of northern Saada province. Several people were wounded.
The procession was on its way to the funeral of Houthi spiritual leader Bader al-Deen al-Houthi, when … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 40 killed in Yemen car bomb attack.

26/11 attackers must be punished: Pakistan foreign minister

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Friday said the terrorists involved in the 26/11 Mumbai attack must be punished and Pakistan is ready to extend all possible support in this regard.

Talking to the media in his native town of Multan, Qureshi said: “We have always condemned the Mumbai attacks. Terrorism in any … Read more : 26/11 attackers must be punished: Pakistan foreign minister.

Maoists blow up ambulance, five killed

BHUBANESWAR – Five people, including two women and a child, were killed when Maoists blew up the ambulance they were travelling in in Orissa’s Kandhamal district, police said Sunday.

The landmine blast took place Saturday night in a hilly and forested area near Brahmanigaon, some 350 km from here.
The ambulance was on a culvert … Read more : Maoists blow up ambulance, five killed.

Pakistani Taliban hold secret meeting, plan fresh strikes

LAHORE – The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has held a secret meeting at which they decided to set up two units to carry out strikes on foreigners and security forces, a media report said.

Express Tribune reported that TTP has formed two units under the supervision of two commanders – Mujahid Abu Asim and Abdul …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

The curious case of the fake Taliban: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – A man who posed as a Taliban leader and hoodwinked his way into getting access to the corridors of power in Afghanistan and also got his bank balance hugely fattened has exposed how “the worlds best-funded and highly regarded intelligence outfits are capable of making royal blunders”, a Pakistani daily has said.

Dawn … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : The curious case of the fake Taliban: Pakistani daily.

Maoists blow up Jharkhand panchayat building

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas blew up a panchayat building in Jharkhands Latehar district as the state holds its first panchayat polls, police said Sunday.

According to the police, 15 to 20 Maoists raided Khura village in Latehar, some 140 km from here, late Saturday night and blew up a panchayat building using detonators and explosives.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists blow up Jharkhand panchayat building.

Two militants killed near Jammu

JAMMU – Two militants were killed in a gunfight with security forces Sunday morning in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, police said.

A joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police raided a suspected hideout of militants in the jungles in Gandoh area in Doda, some 180 km from Jammu. A gun … Read more >>.

Nepal Maoists condemn Indian operation against rebels

KATHMANDU – A year after India started paramilitary operations against its own outlawed Maoist party and nearly five months after security forces killed a top guerrilla leader, Nepals Maoist party has finally reacted to the incidents officially, condemning both and underlining its continued antagonism towards the Indian government.

The week-long plenum of Nepals largest party, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal Maoists condemn Indian operation against rebels.

Jenni-Lyn Watson’s Body Found

CLAY (GaeaTimes.com)- The law enforcement officials at last found the body of Jenni-Lyn Watson, the missing New York girl, who disappeared from her home on November 19. The law enforcement officials of Onodanga said that they found a body near Clay Central Park in North Syracuse where they have been searching for the missing … Read more »».

Suspected Maoists blow up ambulance, three dead

BHUBANESWAR – Three people, including a woman, were killed when suspected Maoists blew up the ambulance they were travelling in Orissas Kandhamal district, police said Sunday.

The landmine blast took place Saturday night in a hilly and forested area near Brahmanigaon village, about 150 km from the district headquarters of Phulbani, when the victims were …. Source article  : Suspected Maoists blow up ambulance, three dead.

Monument for Al Qaeda victims to be built in Iraq

Baghdad, Nov 28 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A council in an Iraqi province has proposed the creation of a museum and setting up of a monument to victims of Al Qaeda in a building that was used as a prison for people kidnapped by the terrorist outfit, an official said.

Though the idea for the museum came …. Source article  : Monument for Al Qaeda victims to be built in Iraq.

Teenager held in US over Christmas festival bomb plot

WASHINGTON – A teenager was arrested on suspicion of trying to detonate a car bomb at a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony in the northwestern US state of Oregon, news reports said Saturday.

Mohamed Osman Mohamud, a Somalia-born naturalized US citizen, was arrested moments before the ceremony took place Friday night in Portland, the US Attorney’s Office … Read more : Teenager held in US over Christmas festival bomb plot.

Militants kidnap four workers in Tripura

AGARTALA – Separatist tribal guerrillas in Tripura have abducted four labourers working on a school building construction site, police said Saturday.

“Outlawed NLFT (National Liberation Front of Tripura) militants, armed with sophisticated weapons, raided the Chandipur village, 145 km north of here, late Friday and kidnapped four workers at gun point while others managed to …. Read the original article  : Militants kidnap four workers in Tripura.

26/11 probe delayed because of India: Rehman Malik

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Interior Minister Rehman Malik Saturday said a delay in investigations into the 26/11 Mumbai attack has been caused because of a lukewarm response from India.

“We have asked India to share some information with us to help us proceed with the probe, but the requisite information has not reached us as yet,” … Read more : 26/11 probe delayed because of India: Rehman Malik.