Crime Watch – Weekly Newsletter for December 13-20, 2010

President’s decision awaited on Afzal Guru mercy plea: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Monday said that action against Afzal Guru, convicted in the 2001 parliament terror attack case, can be taken only after President Pratibha Patil gives her decision on his mercy plea.

“I have explained so many times. 14 cases (mercy petition) were sent to the president during National Democratic [..] Read the original article: here.

Sweden suicide bomber studied in British university

LONDON – The suicide bomber who blew himself up in a terror attack in Sweden Saturday was based in Britain and studied sports therapy at Bedford University, a media report said Monday.

Police were Monday searching the house where Iraqi national Taimour Abdulwahab Al-Abdaly lived with his wife and three children in Luton, Bedfordshire.
…. Original article  : Sweden suicide bomber studied in British university.

Punish guilty in parliament attack case: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday attacked the government for the delay in punishing the guilty in the 2001 parliament terror attack, asking why the government was quiet on the issue.

“The country wants to know about those responsible for the parliament attack. The government should punish them,” Leader of Opposition … Read more >>.

NMDC iron ore shipment hit by Maoist shutdown

RAIPUR – Iron ore transportation by NMDC Ltd, India’s largest iron ore producer and exporter in the public sector, has been hit at its key mining facilities in Chhattisgarh due to a shutdown called by Maoists since Dec 2, a senior official said Monday.

NMDC Ltd has several mines at Bailadila hills in insurgency-riddled Dantewada …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NMDC iron ore shipment hit by Maoist shutdown.

Parliament observes 9th anniversary of Dec 13 attack

NEW DELHI – Cutting across party lines, MPs came together Monday to offer floral tributes and remember the nine people, including eight security personnel, killed in the terror attack on Parliament House nine years ago.

Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Leader of …. Source  : Parliament observes 9th anniversary of Dec 13 attack.

British police find links to Swedish terrorist attack

STOCKHOLM/LONDON – British police searched a house north of London in connection with a suspected terrorist attack in Stockholm over the weekend.

According to Scotland Yard, the search took place about 2300 GMT Sunday. No arrests were made and no dangerous materials found, the Press Association said.
One person, believed to be the attacker, was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British police find links to Swedish terrorist attack.

Mumbai MP asserts Karkare killed by Pakistani terrorists

MUMBAI – Congress leader Digvijay Singh’s party colleague and MP from Mumbai-North Sanjay Nirupam Sunday said his comments over slain Maharashtra police officer Hemant Karkare could weaken India’s stand against terror and Pakistan but there was no doubt that Karkare was killed by Pakistani terrorists.

“Such a statement would weaken our stand in different international …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

15 die, 44 hurt in Iraq suicide bombings (Roundup)

BAGHDAD – At least 15 people were killed and 44 injured Sunday in two suicide bomb attacks in Iraq.

In the western province of Anbar, 13 people were killed and 41 injured in a suicide car bomb attack near a checkpoint, security and medical sources at Ramadi general hospital said.
The explosion took place in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 15 die, 44 hurt in Iraq suicide bombings (Roundup).

Maoist posters surface in south Kolkata

KOLKATA – Several Maoist posters demanding the release of their leaders and urging the people to protest against corruption were Sunday found pasted on the walls in a bustling south Kolkata area, police said.

“The posters were mainly found in the Bhowanipore and Maidan areas,” a police officer said here.
A Maoist poster demanding the … Read : Maoist posters surface in south Kolkata.

Swedish police: Bombing attack was terrorism

STOCKHOLM – Swedish authorities Sunday officially designated a Saturday evening bombing in Stockholm, which left one dead and two injured, as a terrorist attack.

“We regard this as very serious. We are taking all precautions,” said Anders Thornberg, a police officer, during a press conference called in the wake of the attacks.
Authorities have not … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Swedish police: Bombing attack was terrorism.

Six NATO soldiers killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – Six NATO soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack in southern Afghanistan Sunday, reports Xinhua.

“Six International Security Assistance Force service members died following an insurgent attack in southern Afghanistan today,” the alliance said in a statement. It did not identify the nationalities of the victims.
Troops mostly from the US, Britain, [..] Read the original article: here.

Three die, 30 hurt in Iraq bombings

BAGHDAD – Three people were killed and at least 30 others, including a police chief, were wounded Sunday in two bomb attacks targeting Shia pilgrims in eastern Iraq’s Diyala province, Xinhua reports.

A suicide bomber blew himself up at a Shia procession in the al-Gatoon area of Baquba, some 65 km northeast of Baghdad, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

One hurt in Peshawar blast

PESHAWAR – A woman was injured in a bomb blast close to a police checkpost in Pakistan’s Peshawar city Tuesday, a day after two people were killed in an explosion near a school bus here.

Geo TV reported that a woman was injured in the blast on Charsadda Road. Police sources said a police vehicle …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prabhakaran to blame for LTTE’s demise, says Karuna

COLOMBO – Tamil Tiger leader Velupillai Prabhakaran was “solely responsible” for the crushing defeat of his group, a former aide who is now a Sri Lankan minister has said.

Vinayamurthy Muralitharan alias Karuna said Prabhakaran was to blame for the Tigers’ debacle because he did not heed anybody’s advice and acted on his own accord, … Read more : Prabhakaran to blame for LTTE’s demise, says Karuna.

Supreme Court Debates on Vizconde Massacre Case

MANILA, PHILIPPINES (GaeaTimes.com) — Today Supreme Court en banc is going to decide the fate of Hubert Webb. The man is convicted of killing Estrellita Vizconde and her daughters Carmela and Jennifer. The debate is on the motion of Hubert Webb: whether he is guilty or not.
The debate among the justice will start at …. Original source  : Supreme Court Debates on Vizconde Massacre Case.

Mumbai terror suspect Rana’s hearing cancelled

CHICAGO – A status hearing of Pakistani-Canadian terror suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana, co-accused with Lashkar-e-Taiba operative David Headley in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks case, set go on trial here Feb 14, has been cancelled.

The US attorney’s office confirmed cancellation of Monday’s hearing behind closed doors to address the defence request to know what evidence …. Original article  : Mumbai terror suspect Rana’s hearing cancelled.

India, US step up counter terrorism cooperation

WASHINGTON – India and the United States are working through “a huge range” of issues to implement enhanced counter terrorism cooperation in the wake of November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, according to a senior US official.

As part of the President Barack Obama’s trip to India last month, they are starting a new dialogue between …. Read the original article  : here.

German troops could start Afghan withdrawal in 2012

Mazar-E SHARIF – German Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg said Monday that he hoped German troops would start withdrawing from Afghanistan at the beginning of 2012.

He stressed, however, that “this objective is only realistic if it is backed up in a sensible manner.”
The minister, in Afghanistan on an announced visit, said that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : German troops could start Afghan withdrawal in 2012.

Swedish bomb attacker had accomplices: Prosecutor

STOCKHOLM/LONDON – The man behind the suicide bomb attack in Stockholm at the weekend probably had accomplices, Sweden’s lead investigating attorney Thomas Lindstrand said Monday.

The attack was “well prepared” despite being a failure and thus it was suspected that there were further helpers, he told a press conference.
However, there are no specific suspects … Read more : Swedish bomb attacker had accomplices: Prosecutor.

Three Maoists arrested in Ranchi

RANCHI – Three Maoist guerrillas, including a woman, were arrested on the outskirts of Ranchi Monday and explosives recovered from them, police said.

The three rebels, belonging to the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist), were arrested from Tamar-Arki road.
Four quintal of explosives and a large number of gelatin sticks were recovered from …. Original article  : Three Maoists arrested in Ranchi.

Rehabilitated Tamil rebels gain university admission in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – At least 40 former Tamil rebels have gained entry to universities after completing their schooling while undergoing rehabilitation, a local newspaper said Monday.

Rehabilitation Commissioner General Brigiader Sudantha Ranasinghe said the rebels had forcibly recruited the students and they had to interrupt their education, the state-run Daily News said.
“Two of them will … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rehabilitated Tamil rebels gain university admission in Sri Lanka.

Student among two dead in Peshawar school bus blast (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A powerful bomb blast near a school bus in Peshawar, capital of Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Monday killed two people, including a student, an official said.

The remote control device exploded when the school bus was passing nearby,” said senior police official Peshawar Liaqat Ali.
The driver of the bus [..] Read the original article: here.

Two die in blast near Peshawar school bus

PESHAWAR – Two people were killed and two children were injured Monday when a bomb exploded with a deafening roar near a school bus in this Pakistani city.

The blast occurred in Bhana Mari area, triggering panic. Express Tribune reported that the bus was carrying students of the Sir Syed Islamia Model School.
Most of … Original article on : Two die in blast near Peshawar school bus.

Blast in Peshawar

PESHAWAR – A massive blast took place near a school bus in Pakistan’s Peshawar city, a media report said.

Xinhua reported that casualties were feared in the huge explosion that took place near the school bus.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Blast in Peshawar.

Dozens injured in Iran suicide bomb attack

TEHRAN – Dozens of people were injured Wednesday in a suicide bomb attack at a mosque in southeastern Iran, the official IRNA news agency reported.

The attack occurred at the Iman Hussein mosque in Chabahar where Iranians were attending the Ashura ceremony, the anniversary of the death of the third Shiite Imam Hussein.
IRNA said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dozens injured in Iran suicide bomb attack.

School Board Shooting Shocks Citizens

PANAMA CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- The law enforcement officials reported that a gunman opened fire during a Bay District Schools, Florida’s board meeting after exchanging fire between the security chief of the locality. The gunman is identified as Clay Duke, 56, however, the reason for the shooting is still unknown. Panama City Police Department spokesman Sgt. … Read more »»».

Bellagio Robbed: Police Investigating

LAS VEGAS (GaeaTimes.com)- The law enforcement officials are presently searching for a helmet wearing gunman who robbed off one of the most popular Las Vegas casino, near Bellagio Tuesday morning. The robber took about $1.5 million in casino chips. This robbery has left everyone in a state of utter shock as the media outlets …. Source article  : Bellagio Robbed: Police Investigating.

Afghan war can’t be won without Pakistan in the hunt: NYT

WASHINGTON – There is a limited chance of success in the Afghanistan war unless Pakistan hunts down insurgents operating from havens on its Afghan border, says the New York Times quoting two new intelligence reports.

The reports, coming ahead of the release of the latest Afghan strategy review, say that although there have been gains … Original article on : Afghan war can’t be won without Pakistan in the hunt: NYT.

Indian American to assist Holbrooke’s successor

WASHINGTON – The White House began a planned Afghan strategy review with Frank Ruggiero, a deputy of tough diplomat Richard Holbrooke who died Monday, taking his place as the new acting head of the Af-Pak envoy’s office. He will be assisted by two deputies, one of them an Indian American.

Ruggiero became Special Representative … Original article on : Indian American to assist Holbrooke’s successor.

Ten injured in Pulwama grenade attacks

SRINAGAR – Ten people, including two paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers and two forest employees, were injured in two separate grenade attacks in south Kashmir Pulwama district Tuesday.

A senior police officer said separatist guerrillas tossed a grenade in Kakpora town, 30 km from capital Srinagar, in Pulwama district in the evening.
“The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ten injured in Pulwama grenade attacks.

Woman Maoist arrested in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A woman Maoist commander was Tuesday arrested from Jharkhands East Singhbhum district, police sources said.

The rebel was arrested on a tip-off from Gurabandha of East Singhbhum district, some 160 km from Ranchi. She is being interrogated to get more information, the sources added.
Police seized Maoist literature and some other incriminating materials …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Woman Maoist arrested in Jharkhand.

Suspected US drone attack kills four in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A suspected US unmanned aircraft killed four people when it fired two missiles into a vehicle Tuesday in Pakistan’s tribal region along the Afghan border, intelligence officials said.

The drone strike was carried out in Tapi village, 15 km south of Miranshah, the main city in the tribal district of North Waziristan.
“The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Suspected US drone attack kills four in Pakistan.

Chidambaram renews peace talks with rebels

UMSAW – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday urged militant groups in the northeast to come forward for talks and resolve their demands.

“In the last two years, the central government has taken various steps to welcome any group willing to give up arms and live in peace. Violence has no place in a democracy,” Chidambaram … Read more »».

Sweden suicide bomber named his son Osama

LONDON – The Britain-based suicide bomber who blew himself up in a terror attack in Sweden Saturday named his son Osama in honour of the Al Qaeda chief, a media report said Tuesday.

Taimour Abdulwahab al-Abdaly, 29, worked as a bed salesman in Luton, Bedfordshire, and lived with his beautician wife Mona, 28, baby Osama …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four injured in Srinagar grenade explosion

SRINAGAR – Four people, including three passers-by and a paramilitary trooper, were injured in a separatist grenade attack in south Kashmir’s Pulwama town late Tuesday afternoon.

Police said the separatist guerrillas tossed the grenade at a passing Central Reserve Police Force fortified vehicle, known as a bunker. The grenade exploded on the road, injuring three …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Four injured in Srinagar grenade explosion.

Jharkhand anti-Maoist forces fight government apathy

RANCHI – More than a year after the centre sent six senior paramilitary officers to Jharkhand for anti-Maoist operations, the state government has still not formulated their service conditions, thus denying the officers facilities like insurance and higher pay.

The deputy commandant-rank officers were sent to six Maoist-infested districts in October 2009 as Assistant Superintendents …. Read the original article  : here.

Clay Duke Planned Shooting

PANAMA CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- 56-year-old Clay Duke who held the members of a school board at gunpoint during a meeting few days ago had planned the attack for days, Florida police officials have revealed. The incident took place on Tuesday while a meeting of board members was being held at the Bay District Schools in …. Original article  : Clay Duke Planned Shooting.

Terrorism inside Pakistan a high US priority

WASHINGTON – Addressing terrorism that exists inside Pakistan remains a high priority for Washington, a senior US official has said asserting that its pressure on a key ally to do more is not relaxing.

“I wouldn’t say that our pressure is relaxing,” Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affair Robert Blake said in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Terrorism inside Pakistan a high US priority.

Why shouldn’t we become Maoists, ask Chhattisgarh tribals

JAGDALPUR – Many poverty-hit tribals in Chhattisgarh are asking why they shouldn’t become Maoists and take up arms, pointing to the latest incident in which two civilians were branded rebels and shot dead by police.

The traumatised residents of the Koleng area of Bastar district are at a loss over the killings of their co-villagers …. Read the original article  : Why shouldn’t we become Maoists, ask Chhattisgarh tribals.

New York airport bomb plotter gets life sentence

WASHINGTON – A former member of Guyana’s parliament was sentenced to life in prison by a US court for his role in a failed plot to blow up fuel tanks at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, CNN reported.

Abdul Kadir is one of four people who faced charges in the 2007 plot … Read more »».

Rifle Man Slaughters 4 in Spain

MADRID, SPAIN (GaeaTimes.com) — On Wednesday, a person carrying a rifle slaughtered four people in the town of La Canya, situated in the northeastern Spanish province of Gerona.
According to Catalan regional police, the culprit open fired in a bar at around 7 a.m. where a father and his son was killed while doing construction …. Source  : Rifle Man Slaughters 4 in Spain.

50-year-old Man Arrested Over a Woman’s Death in Shrewsbury

SHROPSHIRE (GaeaTimes.com) — A 50-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday when police discovered a dead body of a woman at an address in Shropshire.
At 1840GMT, police officers were called in to the address in Caradoc View, Hanwood, a village near Shrewsbury, where they found the dead body of a woman in her late 50s. …. Read the original article  : 50-year-old Man Arrested Over a Woman’s Death in Shrewsbury.

Two minors among five Maoists held in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Five Maoists, including a woman and two minors, were arrested in Orissa’s Rayagada district Wednesday with a cache of arms and ammunition, police said.

Three guerrillas, in the age group of 20 to 25 years and two under 18 years of age, belonged to the Kashipur team of the Bansadhara division of the …. Source  : Two minors among five Maoists held in Orissa.

Obama condemns ‘despicable’ mosque bombing in Iran

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama condemned the suicide attack on a mosque in Iran that killed at least 30 people Wednesday, calling the bombing “a disgraceful and cowardly act”.

The attack took place at a mosque in Iran’s southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan while worshippers were attending an Ashura ceremony to celebrate Hussein, the third …. Read the original article  : Obama condemns ‘despicable’ mosque bombing in Iran.

LTTE threat to PM during Tamil Nadu visit January

CHENNAI – Security will be tightened more during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Tamil Nadu in January after a central security agency warned of a suspected LTTE attack on him, Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi and other leaders, a top police official said Wednesday.

“Yesterday (Tuesday) we received an alert from a central agency about a … Read more >>.

Five Maoists held in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Five Maoists, including a woman, were arrested in Orissas Rayagada district Wednesday with a cache of arms and ammunitions, police said.

The five guerrillas, all in the age group of 18 to 22 years, belonged to the Kashipur team of the Bansadhara division of the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist, superintendent of police …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Five Maoists held in Orissa.

Terror attack at Iran mosque

TEHRAN – A terror attack Wednesday at a mosque in Iran has “killed tens of people”, an official said.

Mohammad Yaghoub Jedgal, an official, said the terror strike outside Imam Hossein Mosque in southeastern Chabahar city “has killed tens of people mourning on the martyrdom anniversary of the third Imam of Shiites”.
Jedgal told Iranian …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Terror attack at Iran mosque.

Muharram Procession Targeted By Terrorists

PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN (GaeaTimes.com)- A Muharram procession that was taken out in the city of Peshawar in Pakistan on Thursday was struck by tragedy when it was targeted by terrorists who carried out a vicious attack that killed one and left many injured. The deafening bomb blast rocked the Yadgar Chowk area of the city … Original source on Gaea Times at : Muharram Procession Targeted By Terrorists.

“Grim Sleeper” Photos Recovered By Police

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The notorious criminal “Grim Sleeper” might bring an end to his crime now. He has escaped the police for several years after a prolonged 14 years of passivity. However, the Los Angeles police, after conducting a three day search in his property, recovered 180 photos of different women. Now, the police …. Source  : “Grim Sleeper” Photos Recovered By Police.

Mortar attack kills six in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least six people were killed and eight injured Friday in a mortar attack in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Geo News reported.

Around eight mortars were fired from the mountains of Orakzai Agency targetting different areas of Hangu town.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Mortar attack kills six in Pakistan.

US drones kill 10 alleged militants in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 10 suspected militants were killed Friday and several more injured in two separate strikes by US pilotless aircraft in Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border, security officials said.

The drone strikes took place in the Tirah and Lakai valleys of Khyber district, one of the tribal districts where Taliban … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US drones kill 10 alleged militants in Pakistan.

WikiLeaks: India could be target of biological terror

LONDON – US diplomats were concerned that India could be the target of a biological terror attack, with fatal diseases such as anthrax being released into the country before spreading around the world, according to diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks.

The confidential cables revealed that a senior Indian diplomat told the US in 2006 that … Original article on : WikiLeaks: India could be target of biological terror.

VHP meet in Goa to discuss ’saffron terror’

PANAJI – The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) will discuss the issue of “saffron terrorism” at its international conference in Goa Jan 4-9, a top functionary said Friday.

VHP vice president Ashok Chowgule told reporters here that along with saffron terror, the meeting will also focus on Jammu and Kashmir and the construction of the Ramjanmabhoomi … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : VHP meet in Goa to discuss ’saffron terror’.

Maoists kill seven Forward Bloc leaders, workers in Bengal

KOLKATA – Seven Forward Bloc members, including a woman leader, were shot dead by suspected Maoist guerrillas in West Bengal’s Purulia district early Friday, police said.

“They were shot dead in Jhalda-I block area near the Ayodhya Hills. State police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel have rushed to the area,” Purulia Police Superintendent …. Read the original article  : Maoists kill seven Forward Bloc leaders, workers in Bengal.

WikiLeaks cables detail torture on detainees in Kashmir

LONDON – US diplomats were secretly briefed by staff of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) about the systematic abuse of detainees in Kashmir, according to diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks.

The dispatches reveal that US diplomats in Delhi were briefed by ICRC in 2005 about the use of electrocution, beatings and sexual … Read more »».

Hindu radical groups big threat to India: WikiLeaks quotes Rahul

LONDON – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi last year told US Ambassador to India Timothy Roemer that “the growth of radicalised Hindu groups” may be a “bigger threat” to India than support to some Islamic terror groups from the Muslim community, according to diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks.

Rahul Gandhi told Roemer that although “there …. Source  : Hindu radical groups big threat to India: WikiLeaks quotes Rahul.

Terrorists safe havens in Pakistan must be eliminated: Obama

WASHINGTON – Asserting that the terrorist safe havens in Pakistan must be eliminated, US President Barack Obama Thursday said he will travel to Islamabad next year to further US goals in the war torn region.

While Islamabad increasingly recognizes the danger of confronting militants along Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan, “progress has not come fast enough,” …. Original source  : Terrorists safe havens in Pakistan must be eliminated: Obama.

Gains against Taliban in Afghanistan are ‘fragile’, says Obama

WASHINGTON – A report released Thursday on President Barack Obama’s Afghan strategy said progress has been made in turning back the Taliban, but cautioned the situation remains “fragile” and that the challenge remains to make the gains “durable” and “sustainable”.

The White House-led report concluded that the orginal goal of beginning withdrawals of US soldiers …. Source  : Gains against Taliban in Afghanistan are ‘fragile’, says Obama.

Al Qaeda leader hiding in Yemen: report

CAIRO – An al Qaeda leader who was reported killed in Pakistan, is alive and hiding in Yemen, the regional newspaper al-Sharq al-Awsat reported Thursday.

The newspaper said Fahd al-Quso al-Awlaki met with its reporters in a mountainous area in Yemen’s southeastern Shabwa province, where he is being protected by the al-Awalek tribe.
Al-Awlaki, who … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Al Qaeda leader hiding in Yemen: report.

The ‘real’ Sarabjit has been arrested, claims family

PANCHKULA – Family members of Sarabjit Singh – the Indian who is on death row in Pakistan – say a criminal arrested here Thursday is the one responsible for the blasts which Pakistan has blamed on Sarabjit.

Panchkula police arrested Manjeet Singh Rattu in connection with a case of fraud registered here a few months … Read more : The ‘real’ Sarabjit has been arrested, claims family.

One killed, 26 hurt in Peshawar blast

ISLAMABAD – One child was killed and 26 others, including four women and eight children, were injured in a bomb blast in Pakistan’s Peshawar city Thursday.

The blast, which took place in the city’s Yadgar Chowk, targeted people who were going to their homes after their Ashura procession concluded.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : One killed, 26 hurt in Peshawar blast.

US still on course for July 2011 Afghanistan pullout

WASHINGTON – The United States is still on course to start withdrawal from Afghanistan in July 2011 despite “fragile and reversible” progress against insurgents, an official review of the US strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan shows.

The review, set to be formally released by President Barack Obama later Thursday, says the US strategy will continue …. Source  : US still on course for July 2011 Afghanistan pullout.

Karzai, Obama hold telephone talks

KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai and US President Barack Obama agreed Thursday that military gains had been made in Afghanistan, the presidential palace in Kabul said.

The two leaders held a telephone conversation ahead of a much-awaited statement by the White House on a review of its policy in Afghanistan and Pakistan expected later [..] Read the original article: here.

Roadside bomb kills 14 Afghan civilians

KABUL – Fourteen Afghan civilians were killed and four injured when a bomb hit a minivan in the western Afghan province of Herat Thursday, a government spokesman said.

“A roadside bomb hit a civilian passenger van and killed 14, including women and children,” said Shafiq Behrozyan, a spokesman for the province’s governor.
Four others were … Read more >>>.

Six suicide bombers arrested in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Six suspected suicide bombers have been arrested from two places in Pakistan and a huge cache or arms, including suicide jackets, recovered from them, ahead of the Shia community’s Ashura procession, officials said.

Three suspects were arrested Thursday in Quetta in Balochistan province. Two suicide jackets, 28 hand grenades, four rockets and 20 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Six suicide bombers arrested in Pakistan.

Six killed in drone attack in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least six suspected militants were killed Thursday when a US drone fired missiles in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal areas bordering Afghanistan.

The militants were killed in Spin Darang area of Khyber agency, Express TV reported.
…. Read the original article  : Six killed in drone attack in Pakistan.

Assam allows ULFA chief’s bail plea, facilitates peace talks

GUWAHATI – Jailed chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) Arabinda Rajkhowa is all set to step out of prison as the government prosecutor Thursday did not oppose his bail petition, a step seen as an official attempt to pave the way for peace talks.

The government of Assam is planning to … Read more : Assam allows ULFA chief’s bail plea, facilitates peace talks.

Jeffry M. Picower’s Widow Returns $7.2Billion

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- One of the prominent beneficiary of the Ponzi Scam, Jeffry M. Picower passed away last year. The media outlets and the investigators claimed that he reaped more that $7.2 billion from the Wall Street scam. However, after a year of his death, his widow, Barbara Picower has agreed to pay back the …. Source article  : Jeffry M. Picower’s Widow Returns $7.2Billion.

`US can learn from India’s tackling of Punjab, Kashmir’

NEW DELHI/LONDON – The US has said that it can learn from India for successfully tackling insurgencies in Punjab as well as Jammu and Kashmir, revealed an American embassy cable put out by WikiLeaks.

The Feb 23, 2007 cable reproduced by The Guardian said the US was using “every opportunity available to signal our interest … Read more »»».

Payal Surekha’s Murder Creates Sensation

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In a recent incident that has sent shock waves in the Indian IT industry, a 29-year-old woman working with Dell India was found murdered in Bangalore. Her dead body was found on Friday in her flat which is located at one of the posh areas in the city. The software engineer … Read more : Payal Surekha’s Murder Creates Sensation.

Northeast terror not Delhi’s priority: WikiLeaks

NEW DELHI/LONDON – Terror activities in India’s northeast are not a priority for the government as civilian deaths due to terrorism in the region have fallen in recent years, says a leaked US embassy cable.

The cable dated April 18, 2006 released by WikiLeaks and posted in the Guardian says terrorism in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, …. Original source  : Northeast terror not Delhi’s priority: WikiLeaks.

India wants terror info but gives little in return: US

NEW DELHI – India is “very keen” to get information and technology from the US for counter-terrorism efforts but provides “little in return”, says a US embassy cable made public by WikiLeaks.

The cable, dated Feb 23, 2007 and reproduced by The Guardian, also came down heavily on Indian security forces, calling them corrupt and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan Army involved in Mumbai attack, India told US

NEW DELHI – The Pakistan Army was involved in the Mumbai terrorist attack, India’s National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon told the US, according to fresh US embassy cables leaked by WikiLeaks.

“Let’s not insult one another by telling a story that the Pakistan Army was not involved” with the Lashkar-e-Taiba group that carried out the … Read more : Pakistan Army involved in Mumbai attack, India told US.

Lizzy Seeberg Case: No Charges Framed

SOUTH BEND (GaeaTimes.com)- Elizabeth “Lizzy” Seeberg would not have been happy with the verdict had she still been alive today. St. Joseph County prosecutor Michael Dvorak stated on Thursday that he is not going to pursue any criminal charges against the University of Notre Dame football player, who allegedly assaulted the 19-year-old girl on …. Original source  : Lizzy Seeberg Case: No Charges Framed.

US discreetly contacts Delhi Police officers

NEW DELHI – A US embassy cable from here says it often discreetly contacts Delhi Police officers to get information about terror investigations.

The cable is one of many leaked by WikiLeaks and published in the Guardian newspaper.
A cable dated April 18, 2006 said the Regional Security Office (RSO) of the embassy sends a …. Source article  : US discreetly contacts Delhi Police officers.

Canada gets tough on terror, hikes jail terms in Toronto plot

TORONTO – Toughening Canada’s much criticized lenient stand on terrorism Friday, a court of appeal here raised sentences of terrorists jailed in the famous Toronto-18 plot. The Al-Qaeda-inspired Toronto-18 terror plot was uncovered with the arrest of 18 Muslims, mostly of Pakistani origin, in June 2006.

The plotters had planned to storm the Canadian parliament, … Read : Canada gets tough on terror, hikes jail terms in Toronto plot.

Australia is good place to live, says Haneef

MELBOURNE – Mohamed Haneef, an Indian doctor who was falsely accused by Australian police of aiding terrorists, has said he still thinks Australia is a good place to live and work.

Haneef, who is back in Australia with his wife and three-year-old daughter for mediation talks for his hefty compensation claims against the Australian government …. Read the original article  : here.

Four Year Old Boy Beaten to Death

LOUISVILLE (GaeaTimes.com) — The boy was in critical condition when he was hospitalized and finally succumbed to his injuries on Friday. He was admitted at the Kosair Children’s Hospital.
As reported by the LMPD police spokeswoman Alicia Smiley, James “Tony” Hack died Dec. 17, two days after he was hospitalized. Police say his mother’s boyfriend, … Read more : Four Year Old Boy Beaten to Death.

WikiLeaks: Bangladesh intelligence backed Islamists’ political wing

DHAKA – A Bangladeshi intelligence agency supported the idea of an Islamist terrorist group forming a political party as the South Asian country was being governed by a military-backed administration two years ago, media Friday quoted WikiLeaks documents as saying.

The documents, published by the private Bangladeshi news website bdnews24.com, said that the Directorate General … Original article on : WikiLeaks: Bangladesh intelligence backed Islamists’ political wing.

51 killed in US drone attacks in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 51 suspected militants were killed in three US drone strikes within 24 hours in Khyber agency, Pakistan’s northwestern tribal area.

“All three attacks targeted hideouts of banned militant outfit Lashkar-i-Islam in Teerah valley in the Khyber agency”, Express TV reported Saturday.
“It is not known yet whether the chief of Lashkar-i-Islami …. Read the original article  : 51 killed in US drone attacks in Pakistan.

Maoist held for killing businessman

KOLKATA – A Maoist in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas was Friday arrested by the state police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for extorting and killing a businessman, police said.

“Sushanta Sil demanded Rs.6 lakh from Gopal Saha – a businessman of Halisahar. On being refused, the rebels murdered him last month. Sil was arrested this … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoist held for killing businessman.

Meghalaya rebel chief surrenders

SHILLONG – Dimrim N. Sangma, the chairman of Liberation A’chik Elite Force (LAEF), a separatist group operating in Meghalaya, has surrendered along with arms and ammunition, police said Friday.

Four of Dimrim’s aides – ‘Sergeants’ Rakshimbirth Sangma and Ninja G. Momin, ‘Lance Corporal’ Akash G. Momin and ‘Private soldier’ Tangrik Sangma – surrendered Thursday before … Read more »»».

Two Maoists arrested in Bengal

KOLKATA – Two Maoist rebels, including a woman involved in an attack on a paramilitary forces’ camp in February in which 24 troopers were killed, were arrested Friday in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said.

“Sambari Tudu alias Sama and Hapna Murmu were arrested early Friday from an area between Salboni and Lalgarh. They … Read more : Two Maoists arrested in Bengal.

Maudany’s wife named in Tamil Nadu bus burning case

KOCHI – The National Investigating Agency (NIA) Friday accused 14 activists of the People’s Democratic Party, including its jailed leader Abdul Nasir Maudany’s wife, of “waging war against the state” in a case of the burning of a Tamil Nadu state transport bus five years ago.

The charge sheet, filed in a special NIA … Read more : Maudany’s wife named in Tamil Nadu bus burning case.

Talks soon with ULFA: Interlocuter Haldar

GUWAHATI – The much-hyped peace talks between the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and the central government are expected to begin soon with both sides Friday expressing optimism about bringing the curtains down on one of India’s longest running insurgencies in Assam.

I sincerely hope the dialogue process with the ULFA would begin … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Talks soon with ULFA: Interlocuter Haldar.

US drone strikes kill 28 alleged militants in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 28 suspected militants were killed Friday and several more injured in three separate strikes by US pilotless aircraft in Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border, security officials said.

Meanwhile, a mortar attack allegedly carried out by Taliban hit a residential area in nearby Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, killing nine people, including … Read more : US drone strikes kill 28 alleged militants in Pakistan.

Andhra police gun down two Maoists

HYDERABAD – Two Maoists were shot dead in a gun battle Friday with police in Andhra Pradesh, police said.

The exchange of fire took place in the forest area in Visakhapatnam district, about 600 km from Hyderabad.
A police party engaged in combing operations in the area came face to face with a group of … Read more >>>.

Seven Bangladeshis abducted in Afghanistan

KABUL – Unidentified gunmen have kidnapped seven Bangladeshi construction workers in a northern Afghanistan province, an official said Sunday.

“Eight people, including seven Bangladesh nationals and an Afghan guard, were kidnapped in Balkh province on Saturday night,” Xinhua quoted interior ministry spokesman Zamarai Bashari as saying.
The abducted men were employees of a South Korean …. Source article  : Seven Bangladeshis abducted in Afghanistan.

Suicide bombers kill five Afghan soldiers in Kabul

KABUL – Five Afghan soldiers were killed and nine injured when two suicide bombers attacked an army vehicle in Kabul Sunday, the interior ministry said.

One of the attackers detonated his suicide vest and the other one was killed by police, ministry spokesman Zemarai Bashari said.
“Two suicide bombers attacked the Afghan national army vehicle …. Original source  : Suicide bombers kill five Afghan soldiers in Kabul.

Michigan Lottery Theft Accused Sentenced

MICHIGAN CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- A 22 year old Michigan City woman has been sentenced for probation where she will be kept under observation after she pleaded guilty of lottery theft charges. On Wednesday Tiffany Borolov pleaded guilty in a La Porte Circuit Court after she was accused of stealing a big amount of cash in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Michigan Lottery Theft Accused Sentenced.

Suicide attackers hit Afghan army base

KUNDUZ – Suicide bombers attacked an army recruiting base in northern Afghanistan early Sunday, causing at least 10 casualties, police said.

Kunduz city police said at least three militants had breached the training centre at 6 a.m., and two of them had detonated their explosive-packed vests during the shootout.
A reporter for DPA saw 10 … Read : Suicide attackers hit Afghan army base.

Five killed in mysterious Gaza explosion

GAZA – A sudden mysterious explosion in central Gaza Strip killed Saturday night five Palestinian militants, Palestinian paramedics and witnesses said. The circumstances of the blast are still unknown.

The witnesses said that a huge explosion was heard south of the central Gaza Strip town of Deir el-Balah. They said that ambulances rushed to the …. Original article  : Five killed in mysterious Gaza explosion.

Chhattisgarh gunfight over, no casualties

RAIPUR – The gunfight between the heavily-armed Maoists and police that broke out late Saturday evening in Bijapur district of the state’s restive Bastar region ended about an hour later with no casualty to either side, police said.

The exchange of fire between the rebels and police erupted in a thickly forested and hilly area … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh gunfight over, no casualties.

Police-Maoist gunfight erupts in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – A contingent of Chhattisgarh police was engaged in a gun battle with heavily armed Maoists Saturday in a thickly forested and hilly area in Bijapur district of the state’s restive Bastar region, police said.

The gunfight broke out late Saturday evening when rebels opened indiscriminate fire on a large contingent of Chhattisgarh Armed …. Original source  : Police-Maoist gunfight erupts in Chhattisgarh.

Maoist killed in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A Maoist activist was gunned down in Jharkhand’s Khuti district and four rebels were arrested in Palamau district Saturday, police said.

According to a police official, the Maoist was killed in a gun battle with police in Moranburu jungle of Khuti, around 35 km from Ranchi. A Maoist camp was also destroyed during [..] Read the original article: here.

“Grim Sleeper” Case Gets Huge Response

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The photographs which have been released by Los Angeles police in connection with the “Grim Sleeper” case is receiving huge responses since Friday. Ever since police released the photographs online, they have been getting several calls. Police had released photograph featuring women after they were found following a raid in the house …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : “Grim Sleeper” Case Gets Huge Response.

WikiLeaks: Maoists not getting support from outside India

LONDON/NEW DELHI – Indian Maoists are “not dependent on support from outside India” and are moving towards a more unified command system, says a leaked US embassy cable put out by WikiLeaks.

The US cable reproduced by The Guardian said: “Indian terrorism analysts — in some respects more so than the GOI (Government of India) …. Source  : WikiLeaks: Maoists not getting support from outside India.

ISI blew CIA official’s cover: NYT

WASHINGTON – The Islamabad CIA station chief’s identity is suspected to have been deliberately blown by the ISI apparently in retaliation for naming of the Pakistan intelligence agency chief in a law suit in the US by families of 26/11 Mumbai attack victims, the New York Times said Saturday.

US officials said the CIA station …. Original source  : ISI blew CIA official’s cover: NYT.

German chancellor pays surprise visit to Afghanistan

KUNDUZ – German Chancellor Angela Merkel Saturday paid a surprise visit to her country’s troops in northern Afghanistan.

She remembered the dead at the German base at Kunduz with Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg and Volker Wieker, the chief of staff of the German military.
The chancellor talked with soldiers who took part in four …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Greyhounds hunt for top Maoists in Visakhapatnam forests

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh’s elite anti-Maoist force Greyhounds was Saturday continuing combing operations in the forests of Visakhapatnam district bordering Orissa following reports of some top Maoist leaders’ presence in the area.

More forces were airlifted to Cheruvuru forests in Chintapalli mandal, where four Maoists were killed in a gun battle with Greyhounds personnel …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Greyhounds hunt for top Maoists in Visakhapatnam forests.