Crime Watch – Monthly Newsletter January 2011

Plot to bomb Pakistani PM’s rally foiled

ISLAMABAD – A plot to bomb a public rally of Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani in Pakistan’s Sindh province has been foiled following the arrest of two militants, an official said.

The prime minister addressed several gatherings of people and party workers in the country Tuesday to mark the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party’s 44th foundation …. Read the original article  : Plot to bomb Pakistani PM’s rally foiled.

Wisconsin High School Hostage Taker Dies

MARINETTE, (GaeaTimes.com)- Samuel Hengel, the 15-Year old student who held 23 students and their teacher hostage at the Marinette High School in Wisconsin has died due to the self inflicted wounds on Tuesday. The authorities have revealed that the motive behind the teenager’s decision to take the students and teacher hostage has not been … Read : Wisconsin High School Hostage Taker Dies.

John Skelton Underwent Severe Depression

MORENCI (GaeaTimes.com)- John Skelton had tried to commit suicide as he was undergoing severe depression. This has been the claim made by his sister Linda Ford. 40 year old Linda Ford believes that his brother is being subjected to a mental harassment by the police investigators. She has strictly come up to say that no …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Three Missing Michigan Boys Unlikely To Be Alive

MORENCI (GaeaTimes.com)- Police have declared that the three Michigan boys who have been missing since Thanksgiving day are unlikely to be found alive. 9 year old Andrew, 7 year old Alexander and the 5 year Tanner had gone missing from the small Michigan town of Morenci since the 25th of November. Their father John Skelton … Original source on Gaea Times at : Three Missing Michigan Boys Unlikely To Be Alive.

‘US diplomats harassed in Pakistan for backing India’s n-programme’

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s security services harassed US diplomats in Islamabad, delayed visas, clogged customs clearance and sabotaged security contracts as punishment for American support for Pakistan’s civilian government and India’s nuclear programme, suggest leaked US diplomatic cables.

In a briefing to FBI director Robert Mueller ahead of a visit to Pakistan, US embassy officials in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘US diplomats harassed in Pakistan for backing India’s n-programme’.

WikiLeaks: Diplomats fear Pakistan’s nukes may fall into terrorist hands

WASHINGTON – American and British diplomats fear Pakistan’s nuclear weapons programme could lead to fissile material falling into the hands of terrorists or a devastating nuclear exchange with India, the latest cache of US embassy cables released by WikiLeaks suggest.

The leaked cables contain warnings that Pakistan is rapidly building its nuclear stockpile despite the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : WikiLeaks: Diplomats fear Pakistan’s nukes may fall into terrorist hands.

Plot to blow-up Pakistani PM’s rally foiled

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani security officials have arrested two militants and unearthed a plot to carry out a bomb blast at a public rally of Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani in Sukhur district of Sindh province, media reports said Wednesday.

The prime minister addressed several gatherings of people and party workers in the country Tuesday to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ugandan court sets free 18 suspects in World Cup bombings

KAMPALA – A court in the Ugandan capital Kampala Tuesday dismissed charges against 18 suspects in the July bombings that killed more than 70 World Cup fans who were watching a televised match.

The court said it did not find adequate proof to continue the prosecution of the 18 for their alleged involvement in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ugandan court sets free 18 suspects in World Cup bombings.

Meghalaya chief minister confirms ISI’s presence

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma Tuesday admitted that the Garo Hills region in the state was being used as a corridor by rebel groups and operatives of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for anti-India activities.

“We cannot deny that we have a problem,” he said adding that the movement of these anti-national elements was …. Source  : Meghalaya chief minister confirms ISI’s presence.

Monday’s police shootout deaths in Srinagar questioned

SRINAGAR – Following claims that three men killed by police in Srinagar Monday were “innocent youth”, the Jammu and Kashmir Police Tuesday said the trio was functioning as “a Jaish-e-Muhammad module” and was involved in the killing of two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers in Pattan on Nov 10.

Ruling National Conference (NC) MP …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Monday’s police shootout deaths in Srinagar questioned.

Taliban militants planning attack on Karachi arrested

ISLAMABAD – A plan to launch a terror attack on Karachi was foiled Tuesday with the arrest of four Pakistani Taliban militants, police said.

Anti-terrorism police from the criminal investigation department (CID) arrested the four Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan militants who were planning to target sensitive areas, police offices and shrines. They were also planning attacks on … Read more »»».

Bangladesh-origin Briton denies terrorism charges

LONDON – A Bangladesh-born computer expert in Britain, alleged to have offered himself as a suicide bomber, appeared in court Tuesday and denied terrorism charges, a media report said.

Rajib Karim, 31, of Newcastle upon Tyne, who works for British Airways, appeared via videolink at the Old Bailey Court in London where he pleaded not [..] Read the original article: here.

Amnesty to separatists: Asom Gana Parishad divided

GUWAHATI – Assam’s main opposition Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) is bitterly divided on the issue of granting amnesty to jailed separatists as a party MP Tuesday opposed the proposal made by his colleague.

Former chief minister and senior AGP leader Prafulla Kumar Mahanta has demanded a “general amnesty” for all the jailed separatist leaders in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Amnesty to separatists: Asom Gana Parishad divided.

Maoists killed 62 civilians, 11 cops in November: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – The Maoists killed 62 civilians and 11 security personnel in several states in November, union Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Tuesday.

There were 135 incidents of Maoist violence in the month, Chidambaram said in his ministry’s report for November released at a press conference here.
“The Left-wing extremists (Maoists) continue to wage … Read more : Maoists killed 62 civilians, 11 cops in November: Chidambaram.

Mizoram postpones return home of refugees from Tripura

AIZAWL/AGARTALA – The Mizoram government announced it was suspending taking back of tribal refugees from six relief camps in Tripura, claiming obstacle from a section of the refugees and suspected militants, officials said Tuesday.

“Our state government has decided to suspend the ongoing repatriation of Reang refugees from six relief camps in Tripura in the …. Source  : Mizoram postpones return home of refugees from Tripura.

Ronni Chasen’s Murder Suspect Commits Suicide

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The murder case of Hollywood celebrity publicist Ronni Chasen took a brand new twist on Wednesday when a person known as the ‘person of interest’ in the murder committed suicide. According to Beverly Hills police authorities, the man, whose identity has not been released as yet, took his own life by …. Source article  : Ronni Chasen’s Murder Suspect Commits Suicide.

WikiLeaks: Pakistan spy chief shared intelligence with Israel post 26/11

WASHINGTON – Pakistan and Israel have no diplomatic ties but a year after 26/11 Islamabad shared intelligence information with Israel regarding possible terrorist attacks against Jewish and Israeli sites in India, according to a leaked US diplomatic cable.

The head of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, Ahmad Shuja Pasha, told the then US ambassador Anne … Read this article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks: Pakistan spy chief shared intelligence with Israel post 26/11.

Shahbaz Sharif tipped off LeT after 26/11: WikiLeaks cable

LONDON – Pakistan opposition leader Nawaz Sharif’s brother and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif “tipped-off” the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) about impending UN sanctions after the terror group attacked Mumbai in November 2008, reveals a US cable exposed by WikiLeaks. The tip-off helped the outfit to clean out its bank accounts before they could be raided.

The … Read : Shahbaz Sharif tipped off LeT after 26/11: WikiLeaks cable.

Maoist anniversary hits traffic in Orissa districts

BHUBANESWAR – Vehicular traffic was hit in parts of Orissa as Maoist guerrillas Thursday began weeklong anniversary celebrations of their military wing People’s Liberation of Guerilla Army (PLGA), police said.

Private and public vehicles were not plying in many areas of the worst Maoist-hit districts of Malkangiri, Gajapati and Rayagada, a senior police …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Spain takes down ring that forged documents for terrorists

Madrid, Dec 2 (IANS/EFE) Spanish and Thai authorities mounted a joint operation to dismantle a cell that produced false travel documents for groups linked to Al Qaeda, officials said here Wednesday.

Seven people were arrested in Barcelona and three others in Thailand, the Spanish interior ministry said.
The group stole passports and other travel documents … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spain takes down ring that forged documents for terrorists.

Spain detains seven over Al Qaeda collaboration

BARCELONA – Spanish police have detained seven people in connection with Islamist terrorism, it was confirmed Wednesday.

The detainees were suspected of cooperating with Al Qaeda and related organisations. Two of the group’s flatmates were also held on charges of residing illegally in Spain, police said.
They were arrested in the Barcelona area late Tuesday …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Spain detains seven over Al Qaeda collaboration.

New York nears completion of anti-terror shield of tunnels, bridges

NEW YORK – Construction of a $250-million shield intended to protect New York’s tunnels and bridges against terrorist attacks was nearing completion, media reports said Wednesday.

The four-year-old project was aimed at thwarting bomb explosions that would damage the vast network of tunnels, subways and bridges in New York City and surrounding states and threaten … Read more : New York nears completion of anti-terror shield of tunnels, bridges.

Maoists kill CPI-M supporter in Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists Wednesday gunned down a Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) supporter in West Bengals Purulia district, police said.

Bikas Mondal, 22, was fatally shot by a gang of four suspected Maoists at Kumardi village, Purulia Police Superintendent Sunil Chowdhury said.
Bikas was returning home this (Wednesday) evening riding on his motorcycle when …. Original article  : Maoists kill CPI-M supporter in Bengal.

After 26/11, Zardari told US Pakistan will retaliate if India attacks

WASHINGTON – In the wake of 26/11 terror attacks, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari told the US that Islamabad would retaliate if India attacked, but assured that it would not permit non-state actors to dictate state policy, leaked US diplomatic cables reveal.

Asserting that many in the West did not understand the importance of Kashmir … Original article on : After 26/11, Zardari told US Pakistan will retaliate if India attacks.

Wikileaks Founder Julian Assange accused of Rape and Sexual Molestation

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Julian Assange, the WikiLeaks founder is a new name in the Interpol’s wanted list as he is charged with accusations of rape and sexual molestations. He is badly wanted by the Sweden authorities.
His crime surfaced on the month of august when two Swedish women filed a case against him. The … Read more »»».

Militant leads to big arms haul in Kashmir

NEW DELHI – A huge haul of arms and ammunition was recovered from Jammu and Kashmir following information given by a Hizbul Mujahideen militant who was arrested here last month, Delhi Police said Wednesday.

The arms were recovered Nov 25 from a cave in Richbagla forest of Rajouri area, additional deputy commissioner of police …. Original source  : Militant leads to big arms haul in Kashmir.

Manipuri separatist leader Meghen nabbed in Bihar

IMPHAL – One of Indias most wanted separatist leaders, Rajkumar Meghen, chief of the outlawed United National Liberation Front (UNLF) in Manipur, has been arrested, police said Wednesday.

Sleuths of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Tuesday arrested Meghen from near Motihari in Bihars East Champaran district when the rebel leader was trying to cross over …. Original source  : Manipuri separatist leader Meghen nabbed in Bihar.

Pakistan nukes may fall into terrorist hands, fear US diplomats

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s nuclear weapons programme could lead to fissile material falling into the hands of terrorists or a devastating nuclear exchange with India, reveals the latest WikiLeaks cache of US embassy cables that also portray “scepticism that Pakistan will ever cooperate fully in fighting extremist groups” as an insurance against New Delhi.

The leaked … Read more »».

3,200 Taliban killed in Afghanistan in 90 days

LONDON – Secret operations of British and US troops have led to the death of nearly 3,200 Taliban militants in just around 90 days in Afghanistan, a media report said Wednesday.

British Special Air Service (SAS) and Special Boat Service (SBS) personnel, US Delta Force units, Afghan Special Forces Tiger Teams and troops from other … Original source on Gaea Times at : 3,200 Taliban killed in Afghanistan in 90 days.

Zahra Clare Baker Raped Before Murder?

HICKORY (GaeaTimes.com)- The Hickory Police said that the court documents which stated that the murdered Australian girl Zahra Clare Baker might have been raped before she was raped and dismembered. The information were unsealed by a judge in the US state of North Carolina, the media outlets reported. The 10 year old girl’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India must help us fight piracy, terror: Ethiopian Dy PM (Interview)

NEW DELHI – Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn has sought India’s help and a more pro-active role in addressing the twin problem of terrorism and piracy in the east African region, calling it a serious global issue.

Desalegn, on a five-day visit to India since Tuesday, said the problem was particularly serious in Sudan …. Source article  : India must help us fight piracy, terror: Ethiopian Dy PM (Interview).

Al Qaeda wanted to attack Saudi capital

Riyadh, Dec 3 (IANS/AKI) The Al Qaeda wanted to carry out a terrorist attack in this Saudi Arabia capital, a former leader of the terrorist outfit has said.

Muhammad al-Awfi, a Saudi Arabian, said in an interview to the Arabic satellite TV channel Al-Arabiya: “Our efforts were concentrated on recruiting young Saudis, because we wanted … Read more >>>.

High alert in Telangana as Maoists make a comeback

HYDERABAD – Police went on high alert in north Telangana Friday as Maoists returned to the region after lying low for several years, killing three people and abducting another three since Thursday.

Police forces, including personnel of the elite anti-Maoist Greyhounds, began combing operations Friday in Eturanagaram forests of Warangal district and also in Karimnagar, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : High alert in Telangana as Maoists make a comeback.

`WikiLeaks exposed pettiness of Pakistani leaders’

ISLAMABAD – The WikiLeaks’ revelation has exposed the “pettiness of a number of national leaders” of Pakistan, said a leading Pakistani daily that added “there is a whole set of lessons to be learnt” from the US cables.

An editorial in the Dawn Friday said: “The world has perhaps never before been provided with such … Read more >>.

Maoists blow up police post in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists blew up a police post in Orissa’s Keonjhar district during the weeklong anniversary celebration of their military wing, People’s Liberation of Guerilla Army (PLGA), police said Friday.

About 20-30 rebels Thursday night blasted the abandoned police post at Banspal village using a landmine when nobody was inside, state’s inspector general of police …. Source article  : Maoists blow up police post in Orissa.

US freezes assets of three Pakistani terrorists

WASHINGTON – The United States has slapped sanctions against three of Pakistan’s most wanted terrorists associated with Lashkar-e Jhangvi (LJ) and Jaish-e Mohammed (JEM) held responsible for deadly attacks in India, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The three terrorists designated Thursday by the US Treasury Department were LJ senior leader Amanullah Afridi, LJ chief operational commander Mati …. Read the original article  : US freezes assets of three Pakistani terrorists.

WikiLeaks: US, Britain decided to play safe after 26/11

WELLINGTON – Diplomats from five countries, including the US and Britain, decided not to get “sucked into the blame game” being played by India and Pakistan after the 26/11 Mumbai attack, according to a leaked US diplomatic cable.

The Dec 2008 document released by WikiLeaks is about the international response to a series of deadly … Read : WikiLeaks: US, Britain decided to play safe after 26/11.

Pakistani university closed over militant threats

ISLAMABAD – A university here in the Pakistani capital was closed for three days Thursday after it reportedly received threats from militants, Xinhua reported.

The National University of Modern Languages (NUML) was closed after receiving an advisory from the Crisis Management Cell of the interior ministry, an official said.
A large number of foreign students …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

My father’ll fight for free Manipur till death: rebel leader’s son

GUWAHATI – One of India’s most wanted separatist leaders Rajkumar Meghen, chairman of the outlawed United National Liberation Front (UNLF), would continue to fight for independence of the northeastern state of Manipur until his last breath, his son Mei Chinglen said Thursday.

“I would simply say he would fight until his last breath for the …. Source article  : My father’ll fight for free Manipur till death: rebel leader’s son.

39 Al Qaeda militants captured in Iraq

BAGHDAD – Thirty-nine suspected Al Qaeda militants, including the outfit’s leaders in Iraq’s western province of Anbar, have been captured by security forces, a media report said Thursday.

“Iraqi security forces have captured 39 Al Qaeda members and their leaders who ran terrorist operations in Anbar province,” Interior Minister Jawad Bolani said in a televised … Read more : 39 Al Qaeda militants captured in Iraq.

Army apologises to Omar for shootout statement

JAMMU – The Indian Army has apologised to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for a statement that a shootout had occurred in Srinagar earlier this week because of the state government’s insistence on thinning out troops in the city, an officer said.

The army’s Northern Command chief, Lt. Gen. B.S. … Read more : Army apologises to Omar for shootout statement.

Lack of cohesion led to 26/11: Navy chief

NEW DELHI – Navy chief Admiral Nirmal Verma Thursday said India has come a long way to secure its maritime boundaries, post the 2008 Mumbai terror attack which was a result of lack of cohesion between intelligence and security agencies other than the navy and the Coast Guard.

One of the reasons why the 26/11 … Read more : Lack of cohesion led to 26/11: Navy chief.

Jeffrey David Kirby’s Trial Begins

SANTA ANA (GaeaTimes.com)- Jury selection continued on Monday and on Tuesday the trial of the man charged in the deadly crash of Charles Lewis Jr.’ Ferrari in Newport Beach. Jeffrey David Kirby, is accused of crashing his car into the Ferrari driven by Tap Out clothing line co-founder Charles “Mask” Lewis Jr. back …. Original source  : Jeffrey David Kirby’s Trial Begins.

Sorry, we blew up ambulance: Maoists

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas issued a public apology Saturday for having blown up an ambulance and killing five “innocent” people in Orissa’s Kandhamal district last month.

The rebels issued a statement which was received by some mediapersons in Phulbani town, the district headquarters of Kandhamal.
Communist Party of India-Maoist Orissa unit secretary Sabyasachi Panda alias …. Read the original article  : here.

Yemen offered US ‘open door’ to attack Al Qaida: WikiLeaks

LONDON – Yemen secretly offered US troops unrestricted access to its territory to attack Al Qaida hideouts in the country, the US diplomatic cables leaked by whistleblower Wikileaks has revealed.

Yemen President Ali Abdullah Saleh told Barack Obama’s deputy national security adviser, John Brennan, in September 2009: “I have given you an open door on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yemen offered US ‘open door’ to attack Al Qaida: WikiLeaks.

Top Maoist leader arrested in West Bengal

KOLKATA – One of the seniormost Maoist leaders in West Bengal was arrested along with his three associates by the city polices Special Task Force Friday night, a top police officer said Saturday.

Sudip Chongdar, more popularly known as Kanchan alias Batas, secretary of the state unit of the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist), was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Top Maoist leader arrested in West Bengal.

Disney Town Resident Kills Himself

MIAMI (GaeaTimes.com)- The town Celebration built by Disney witnessed a second violent death just after few days of its first murder in 14 year history. Celebration resident Craig Foushee barricaded himself on Thursday in his home for more than 14 hours and fired shots at police. However, the eyewitnesses said that the police did …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Disney Town Resident Kills Himself.

CBP Arrested 2 Sex Offenders at Dellus International Airport

DULLES (GaeaTimes.com) — Two sex offenders have been arrested from Dulles International Airport by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
One of the 2 offenders was 46-year-old Kehipo Bolou, who was arrested Monday after he returned to the United States from Belgium. Bolou is charged with third-degree sexual abuse of a minor. He’s an Ivory … Read more : CBP Arrested 2 Sex Offenders at Dellus International Airport.

Police Arrests a Guy for Walking around Nude in St.Lucie

PORT ST.LUCIE (GaeaTimes.com) — No more fun time for Mr Warren “Nude” Stearns. Police has arrested this man on the charges of misdemeanor as one of the neighbor launched a formal complaint against him for walking nude outside his house.
A woman on Northwest Wolverine Road told Port St. Lucie police Aug. 3 she saw … Read more »».

Meghalaya deploys special anti-insurgency police team

SHILLONG – A 53-member Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team has been deployed in Meghalaya to conduct anti-insurgency operations, Home Minister H.D.R. Lyngdoh said Friday.

“The SWAT team is being deployed in Garo Hills to render quick and swift operation in the jungle against militants,” Lyngdoh told legislators in the assembly during question hour. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Meghalaya deploys special anti-insurgency police team.

Lockerbie bomber’s family to sue Britain

LONDON – Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi has claimed that the family of released Lockerbie bomber is preparing to sue Britain for false imprisonment and medical neglect, it was reported here Friday.

Gaddafi said Thursday Abdulbaset al Megrahi remained “very ill” with prostate cancer following his controversial release by the Scottish government on compassionate grounds in …. Source  : Lockerbie bomber’s family to sue Britain.

Sri Lanka rejects war crimes video, UN calls for probe (Second Lead)

LONDON/NEW DELHI – Sri Lanka has described as “fake” a new video released by Britain’s Channel 4 News that allegedly featured its troops executing naked men and women, as the UN rapporteur sought a fresh probe.

The video, which was telecast Tuesday, shows Sri Lankan government troops executing civilians in the last few weeks of …. Source  : Sri Lanka rejects war crimes video, UN calls for probe (Second Lead).

I was not arrested in India, claims UNLF head

GUWAHATI – Chairman of the outlawed United National Liberation Front (UNLF) Rajkumar Meghen of Manipur Friday claimed he was not arrested in India but was handed over to Indian authorities after being kidnapped in Bangladesh Sep 29.

I was not arrested here but kidnapped by the Bangladesh police on Sep 29 (2010) and then … Original source on Gaea Times at : I was not arrested in India, claims UNLF head.

Assassin on death row wants to be baptized a Sikh

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR – Balwant Singh, a terrorist who has been convicted for the assassination of former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh and is on a death row, has expressed his desire to be baptized a Sikh.

The terrorist, who is lodged in Chandigarh’s high security Burail jail, has sought this as his last wish before being … Read more >>.

ULFA’s ‘Mama’ released on bail, fifth to be set free

GUWAHATI – Septuagenarian separatist leader and political ideologue of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), Bhimkanta Buragohain, stepped out of Guwahati Central Jail Sunday after seven years in custody – the fifth top rebel leader to be released on bail in the past six months.

I am happy to be freed on bail … Read more : ULFA’s ‘Mama’ released on bail, fifth to be set free.

Greek police uncover hideout, nab suspected terrorists

ATHENS – Greek counterterrorism police Saturday raided a hideout in Athens belonging to a terrorist group, confiscating a cache of guns and explosives and arresting at least five people, media reports said.

Greek radio and television said three machine guns, seven handguns, grenades and 50 kilograms of explosive powder and 200 grams of TNT were …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Greek police uncover hideout, nab suspected terrorists.

50 rebels killed in Mogadishu

MOGADISHU – About 50 Islamist rebels have been killed and scores of others injured in fierce gun battles with the government troops in Mogadishu, reports Xinhua.

Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed said Saturday that about 50 fighters of the Al Shabaab group were killed in fighting in the past few days.
The … Read more >>.

Afghanistan, Pakistan stress joint efforts to fight terrorism

KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Saturday described terrorism as the common enemy and called for joint efforts to overcome the menace, saying the peace in the region was in the interest of both the neighbouring countries.

“I am emphasising that a stable Afghanistan would benefit Pakistan, and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Five top Maoist leaders arrested in West Bengal (Roundup)

KOLKATA – In a major breakthrough, seven members of the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist), including five top leaders, were arrested in West Bengal over the past two days, police said.

Three top leaders and a Maoist supporter were nabbed from Maidan area in the heart of Kolkata, and another state committee member was …. Source article  : Five top Maoist leaders arrested in West Bengal (Roundup).

France against one country’s monopoly in space: Sarkozy

BANGALORE – French President Nicolas Sarkozy asserted that his country was against monopoly of one or two states in space ventures and favoured as many nations to be in the race for the conquest of space.

“We refuse to allow the space adventure to ever become the monopoly of one or two states (countries) and …. Source article  : France against one country’s monopoly in space: Sarkozy.

Top Maoist leaders arrested in West Bengal (Second Lead)

KOLKATA – In a major breakthrough, the city police’s Special Task Force arrested five top Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) leaders Friday and Saturday, a police officer said.

A huge cache of arms and ammunition, including foreign made improvised rocket launchers and state-of-the-art communication devices, was also seized.
“Sudip Chongdar (CPI-Maoist state secretary) and his … Original source on Gaea Times at : Top Maoist leaders arrested in West Bengal (Second Lead).

Baghdad Rocked By Bombings

BAGHDAD, IRAQ (GaeaTimes.com)- While Baghdad is still recovering from frightful accident of two buses carrying pilgrims which claimed more than 20 lives, an unexpected bomb blast killed at least 8 Iranian pilgrims and injured more than 45 people. The incident took place near Shiite Muslim shrine where suddenly bombs exploded and killed the Iranian …. Read the original article  : Baghdad Rocked By Bombings.

Jharkhand panchayat polls: 3,000 backed by Maoists win unopposed

RANCHI – The Maoists might not believe in the democratic process but close to 3,000 candidates supported by them – many of them their wives or kin – have been elected unopposed in the ongoing Jharkhand panchayat polls, sources said.

Heartening though this might be for the Maoists, the rebels have been caught in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jharkhand panchayat polls: 3,000 backed by Maoists win unopposed.

Fresh evidence says Sarabjit is innocent: Pakistani lawyer

CHANDIGARH – A new mercy petition for Sarabjit Singh – the Indian who is on death row in Pakistan – has been sent to the president of that country, says his Pakistani lawyer who also claims to have submitted fresh evidence to prove it is a case of mistaken identity.

Sheikh, who is handling the …. Read the original article  : Fresh evidence says Sarabjit is innocent: Pakistani lawyer.

Sarkozy backs UNSC bid, India-France ink n-deals

NEW DELHI – French President Nicolas Sarkozy Monday backed India’s bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council and also called upon Pakistan to fight terrorism even as India and France signed seven deals, most of them for setting up two nuclear plants.

“It (UNSC seat) is not just an important matter for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sarkozy backs UNSC bid, India-France ink n-deals.

Cash from pilgrims used to finance 26/11: WikiLeaks

LONDON – Militants often use the annual Haj pilgrimage for laundering money and cash from pilgrims was used to finance the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, a confidential US embassy cable published by whistle-blower websitse WikiLeaks says.

A Sky News report cites the New York Times as detailing a long list of possible methods terrorists might [..] Read the original article: here.

US doubtful about winning war on Pakistan border

WASHINGTON – US diplomats in Pakistan are sceptical about eventually winning the military struggle in Pakistan’s badlands, saying peace talks go nowhere and murderous militants control key towns, a leaked State Department cable made available to Wikileaks reveals.

A long cable from the US consulate in Peshawar also says eight years of airstrikes, military patrols … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US doubtful about winning war on Pakistan border.

Rebels kill pro-Maoist activist

KOLKATA – A member of the pro-Maoist tribal body, Peoples’ Committee Against Police Atrocities, was killed by the rebels in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district because they suspected him to be an informer, police said Monday.

“Asit Bera was dragged out of his home Sunday night and later shot. His body was found in Bachurkhamar …. Read the original article  : here.

Guerrillas attack Kashmir police officer’s house

SRINAGAR – Heavily armed separatist guerrillas attacked the residence of the Sopore police chief in Jammu and Kashmir by opening fire and hurling grenades, police said Monday.

The guerrillas fired at least four grenades followed by heavy firing from automatic weapons at the official residence of Superintendent of Police Altaf Khan in north Kashmir’s Sopore, …. Read the original article  : Guerrillas attack Kashmir police officer’s house.

Maoist shutdown hits NMDC iron ore transportation

RAIPUR – A weeklong shutdown enforced by Maoists has hit iron ore transportation by NMDC Ltd, India’s largest iron ore producer and exporter in the public sector, at its key mining facilities in Chhattisgarh, an official said Monday.

NMDC Ltd has several mines at Bailadila in insurgency-riddled Dantewada district in Chhattisgarh where it produces more … Read more : Maoist shutdown hits NMDC iron ore transportation.

Pakistan declares Afghan border region militant-free

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s security forces have managed to get more than 85 percent of the country’s troubled Orakzai agency cleared from the militants to enable return of displaced people, authorities said.

Orakzai is one of the seven agencies in the federally administered tribal area of Pakistan, bordering Afghanistan, where the security forces launched a crackdown … Original article on : Pakistan declares Afghan border region militant-free.

Greek police charge six with terrorism after raid

ATHENS – Police Sunday charged six people of having connections with a terrorist group after confiscating guns and explosives at various locations across Greece.

The suspects range in age from 21-30 and include one woman. They were detained following police raids in Athens, the port of Piraeus, the western town of Agrinio and the southern … Read more : Greek police charge six with terrorism after raid.

WikiLeaks: LeT planned to kill Modi, set up bases in south India

WASHINGTON – Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), blamed for Mumbai terror attack, had planned to assassinate Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and use Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu as a strike base in southern India, a leaked US diplomatic cable reveals.

A June 19, 2009 secret State Department cable signed (Secretary of State Hillary) Clinton … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks: LeT planned to kill Modi, set up bases in south India.

Kishenji alive and fit, reveal arrested Maoist leaders

KOLKATA – Ending the confusion over elusive top Maoist leader Kishenji’s health, arrested rebel leaders have revealed he is alive and fully fit, police said Sunday.

“During interrogation, Sudip Chongdar alias Kanchan, the state committee secretary of Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) and other state committee members arrested Friday, have revealed that Koteshwar Rao alias [..] Read the original article: here.

India may allow Pakistan access to 26/11 witnesses

NEW DELHI – India may allow an investigating team from Pakistan to question Mumbai witnesses of the 2008 terror attack so that the trial against militant conspirators arrested in that country could be concluded.

According to informed sources, the government is awaiting “necessary opinion from the Bombay High Court – where the case is …. Read the original article  : India may allow Pakistan access to 26/11 witnesses.

Abducted official offered dog meat by Garo militants

SHILLONG – A Meghalaya government official, abducted and held hostage by Garo rebels for nearly two months, Sunday said he had been offered dog meat during his captivity but subsisted on a vegetarian diet.

“They (the rebels) always went to nearby villages and brought dog meat, pork, dry rotis (chapattis) and (lentil) dal for … Read more >>.

Greek police nab nine suspected terrorists

ATHENS – Counter-terrorism police raided hideouts across Greece belonging to terrorism group Sect of Revolutionaries, confiscating a cache of guns and explosives and arresting at least nine people, reports said Sunday.

Police officials said three machine guns, seven handguns, grenades and 50 kg of explosive powder and 200 grams of TNT were discovered in a …. Original source  : Greek police nab nine suspected terrorists.

Balochistan chief minister escapes bid on life (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – The chief minister of Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province escaped an attempt on his life Tuesday when a suicide blast targeted his cavalcade in capital Quetta, killing at least one person and injuring nine others.

The blast was carried out when the cavalcade of Chief Minister Aslam Raisani was passing through Saryab Road in …. Source article  : Balochistan chief minister escapes bid on life (Second Lead).

Terror from Pakistan not acceptable: Sarkozy

MUMBAI – French President Nicolas Sarkozy Tuesday said it was unacceptable that terrorist attacks originate in Pakistan and the 26/11 strike in Mumbai proved terrorism is “nothing but criminal activity”.

“We know of the price the Pakistan population is paying for terrorism but it is not acceptable for the world that terrorist attacks originate from …. Source article  : Terror from Pakistan not acceptable: Sarkozy.

Terrorists can’t be allowed to threaten India: Sarkozy

MUMBAI – French President Nicolas Sarkozy Tuesday said terror groups from the neighbourhood cannot be allowed to threaten India and it was unacceptable that Taliban and Al Qaida should find refuge in Pakistan.

“The Mumbai attack proved one more time that terrorism is nothing but criminal activity. It pretends to act for political or … Original article on : Terrorists can’t be allowed to threaten India: Sarkozy.

No ex-gratia for Kanishka victims in action plan

TORONTO – Canada is set to unveil an action plan to implement the recommendations of the Air India bombing inquiry commission which submitted its report in June. But there will be no announcement of ex-gratia payments to the victim families as recommended by the panel headed former Canadian chief justice John Major.

All 329 passengers … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No ex-gratia for Kanishka victims in action plan.

Che’s granddaughter, Guzman’s son invited to Maoist do

KATHMANDU – Though he never came to Nepal, slain Cuban revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara remains one of the best-known foreign faces in the Himalayan republic that nursed a 10-year Communist revolution of its own.

His image in the celebrated red beret, immortalised by Cuban photographer Alberto Diaz Gutierrez, looks out from the backs of whizzing … Read more >>.

Balochistan chief minister escapes Quetta suicide blast

ISLAMABAD – The chief minister of Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province escaped unhurt Tuesday when a suicide blast targeted his cavalcade in capital Quetta, killing at least one person and injuring six others, an official said.

“The blast was carried out moments after the cavalcade of Balochistan Chief Minister Aslam Raisani passed through Saryab Road in [..] Read the original article: here.

One killed in Pakistan blasts

ISLAMABAD – At least on person was killed and many others were injured Tuesday as two powerful blasts rocked Pakistan’s Quetta city, Geo News reported.

The injured have been shifted to hospital.
…. Read the original article  : One killed in Pakistan blasts.

Mumbai terror suspect Rana’s trial set for Feb 14

CHICAGO – Pakistani-Canadian terror suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana, co-accused with Lashkar-e-Taiba operative David Headley in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks case, will go on trial in a federal court here Feb 14.

Wearing an orange jumpsuit and leg shackles Rana stood before US District Judge Harry Leinenweber here Monday as defence and prosecution attorneys hashed out …. Source  : Mumbai terror suspect Rana’s trial set for Feb 14.

Meghalaya seeks public support against Garo rebel outfit

SHILLONG – Ruling out talks with the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebels, the Meghalaya government Monday appealed to the public to extend their cooperation to curb the rebel group’s activities.

The three districts of Garo Hills region in western part of Meghalaya has witnessed spurt of GNLA’s anti-national activities, prompting the government to …. Original source  : Meghalaya seeks public support against Garo rebel outfit.

Night raids to continue despite Afghan objections: NATO

KABUL – A NATO spokesman said Monday the alliance would continue night operations in the fight against Taliban insurgents, despite strong objections from Afghans, including President Hamid Karzai.

NATO spokesman General Josef Blotz said the night operations – conducted chiefly by special forces – were part of a wide range of tactics used by allied …. Source  : Night raids to continue despite Afghan objections: NATO.

German Bakery blast plot hatched in Colombo: Charge-sheet

PUNE – The plot to bomb the German Bakery in Pune on the eve of Valentine’s Day (Feb 13) was hatched in Colombo in March 2008, according to the charge-sheet filed by the Maharashtra Police’s Anti-Terrorist Squad in a local court here.

Himayat Baig, the alleged mastermind, had secured training in assembling explosives in …. Original source  : German Bakery blast plot hatched in Colombo: Charge-sheet.

Separatists open finance companies in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Several northeast separatist groups have floated finance companies and doing business in Assams main city Guwahati besides setting up bases in cities outside the region.

It is true that some militant groups or individual militant leaders have opened finance companies in Guwahati and even giving loans to people, besides carrying out businesses, Assam … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Separatists open finance companies in Guwahati.

Five injured in Manipur blast

IMPHAL – At least five people were injured Monday when militants lobbed a grenade at the crowded Nagamapal market in Manipur capital Imphal, police said

Probably the militants lobbed the grenade from a motorcycle and sped away, a police officer said.
Five people, most of them either shoppers or vendors, were injured and shifted to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Five injured in Manipur blast.

China blocked UN sanctions on 3 Pakistani terrorists: WikiLeaks

WASHINGTON – Apparently at the behest of Pakistan, China, which wields a veto in the UN Security Council, put a “technical hold” on an Indian request to slap sanctions on three Pakistani terrorists, a leaked State Department cable reveals.

“On the international stage, Pakistan has sought to block the UNSCR 1267 listings of Pakistan-based or … Read more : China blocked UN sanctions on 3 Pakistani terrorists: WikiLeaks.

40 killed, 70 injured in Pakistan blasts (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – At least 40 people were killed and more than 70 injured Monday in two successive blasts in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, state-run PTV reported.

The blasts hit an office of local tribal elders in Mohmand agency district. According to security officials, the first blast took place at the gate and the second one …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 40 killed, 70 injured in Pakistan blasts (Second Lead).

Nepal finally feels WikiLeaks heat

KATHMANDU – More than a week after whistleblower website WikiLeaks started to publish confidential US embassy cables, Nepal began to feel the heat Monday after a media report indicated that the Islamic terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) had penetrated the Himalayan republic.

Late reactions started coming Monday after a BBC report Saturday highlighted a cable sent [..] Read the original article: here.

8 killed, 40 injured in Pakistan blast

ISLAMABAD – At least eight people were killed and more than 40 injured Monday in a blast in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Express TV reported.

The blast took place at a building in Mohmand agency district where a group of tribal elders were holding a meeting. “The exact nature of blast is not yet known,” …. Original article  : 8 killed, 40 injured in Pakistan blast.

15 killed in Pakistan suicide blast

ISLAMABAD – At least 15 people were killed and more than 20 injured Wednesday morning in a suicide blast in Kohat’s busy Teerah market in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, state-run PTV reported.

The suicide bomber blew himself up in a barber’s shop located near a bus stand. The death toll could rise further, the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 15 killed in Pakistan suicide blast.

Deal firmly with terrorists, says CPI-M

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Wednesday asked the government to deal firmly with terrorists, a day after a terrorist bomb blast killed a two-year-old girl in Varanasi.

Condemning the bomb blast on the bank of the Ganga that also injured over 20 people, the CPI-M expressed “heartfelt sympathy to all those …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Deal firmly with terrorists, says CPI-M.

Uttar Pradesh ignored specific terror input: Chidambaram

VARANASI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday accused the Uttar Pradesh government of ignoring a specific warning issued in February about terrorists planning to attack the Sheetla Ghat on the banks of the Ganga river.

Chidambaram, who travelled to the temple town of Uttar Pradesh a day after a blast killed a two-year-old girl, said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bomb blast kills 15 in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A bomb exploded at a local market in Tirah Valley in Pakistan’s federally administered tribal area, killing 15 people, sources told Geo News.
…. Read the original article  : Bomb blast kills 15 in Pakistan.

Chidambaram visits Varanasi blast site, meets injured

VARANASI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday visited the site of the blast here which killed a toddler and left over 20 people, including foreigners, injured. He also met those wounded in the terror strike.

Chidambaram headed to the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) where several injured are being treated – straight after arriving at the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chidambaram visits Varanasi blast site, meets injured.

US denounces Varanasi terror attack

NEW DELHI – US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer Wednesday condemned the “deplorable and cowardly” bomb attack in Varanasi that left a girl child dead and over 20 people injured.

Offering his “heartfelt condolences” to the Indian people and to the victims, Roemer described Varanasi as “a city well-known for the tolerance of its citizens and … Original article on : US denounces Varanasi terror attack.

Mayawati should quit, opposition says after blast

VARANASI/LUCKNOW – Attributing the terror attack in Varanasi to security lapses and intelligence failure, opposition parties Wednesday demanded the resignation of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati.

A day after the blast in the eastern Uttar Pradesh town claimed the life of a two-year-old girl and injured over 20, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress …. Read the original article  : Mayawati should quit, opposition says after blast.

Varanasi Bomb Blast Sends Shock Waves

VARANASI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)-The Varanasi Bomb Blast which killed a child and left several others injured has sent shock waves across the nation and it marks the re emergence of terrorist activities after a period of lull. Manmohan Singh the Indian prime minister has said in his statement that the residents of India should be …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Varanasi Bomb Blast Sends Shock Waves.

After blast, prayers as usual at Ganga in Varanasi

VARANASI – Faith emerged victorious over terror as devotees converged along the banks of the Ganga to perform prayers amid heavy security arrangements Wednesday morning, a day after a blast rocked this holy city, killing a two-year-old girl.

Undeterred by the terror strike, devotees, including foreigners, participated in ‘aartis’ and performed other rituals along the … Read more : After blast, prayers as usual at Ganga in Varanasi.

IM e-mail tracked to Mumbai: Police sources

MUMBAI – The e-mail sent by terror group Indian Mujahideen claiming responsibility for the blast at Varanasi Tuesday has been traced to Mumbai’s northern suburb of Malad, police sources said.

Several search teams were rushed to Malad to track the Internet Protocol (IP) address of the e-mail in which the group said the attack was …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : IM e-mail tracked to Mumbai: Police sources.

‘We are ok’: Foreigners tweet about Varanasi blast

NEW DELHI – Slovakian Brano Gege, a first time visitor to Varanasi, had been enjoying the Ganga ‘aarti’ on the ghats of the ancient city, where he had been staying for the last two nights. Instead, he became a witness to a terror attack.

“#varanasi we are ok, have been hundreds meter from the blast, …. Source article  : ‘We are ok’: Foreigners tweet about Varanasi blast.

Girl killed, more than 20 injured in Varanasi blast (Intro Night Lead)

VARANASI/NEW DELHI – A small girl was killed and over 20 people, including a few foreigners, were injured when a bomb exploded on the banks of the Ganga during Tuesday evening’s ‘maha aarti’ watched by hundreds and sparked off a stampede, authorities and witnesses said. Terror group Indian Mujahideen, in an e-mail, claimed responsibility for … Read more >>>.

Indian Mujahideen claims responsibility for Varanasi blast

NEW DELHI – Terror group Indian Mujahideen Tuesday owned responsibility for a bomb explosion in Varanasi that killed a small girl and left 20 injured, saying it was to avenge the 1992 demolition of Ayodhya’s Babri Masjid.

In an e-mail to media houses soon after the blast, the terror group said: Indian Mujahideen attribute(s) this … Read : Indian Mujahideen claims responsibility for Varanasi blast.

Girl killed, over 20 injured in Varanasi blast (Night Lead)

VARANASI – A girl just two years old was killed and more than 20 people, including a few foreigners, were injured when a bomb exploded on the bank of the Ganga during Tuesday evening’s ‘maha aarati’ watched by hundreds, sparking off a stampede, authorities and witnesses said.

Swastika Sharma succumbed to multiple splinter injuries and …. Source article  : Girl killed, over 20 injured in Varanasi blast (Night Lead).

‘Had informed about security laxity in Uttar Pradesh’

NEW DELHI – As a bomb explosion in Varanasi left a child killed and injured more than 20 people, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Lok Sabha member from the Uttar Pradesh temple town Murli Manohar Joshi said Tuesday that he had expressed concern over the “lax security” to the state government.

“I had …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Had informed about security laxity in Uttar Pradesh’.

Army captain injured in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – A captain of the counter insurgency Rashtriya Rifles was injured Tuesday evening in a fierce gunfight with a group of separatist guerrillas holed up in a house in north Kashmir’s Sopore town.

The gunfight erupted as troops of 22 Rashtriya Rifles and Special Operations Group (SOG) of the state police jointly surrounded a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Army captain injured in Kashmir gunfight.

Two year old girl killed in Varanasi blast

VARANASI – A two-year-old girl was killed in the blast in Varanasi Tuesday evening that also left more than 20 people injured, police said.

Additional Director General of Police Brij Lal said the child, Swastika Sharma, was killed in the explosion that ripped through the Shitla Ghat on the banks of the Ganga river during …. Original article  : Two year old girl killed in Varanasi blast.

Maintain calm, peace, appeals PM after Varanasi blast

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday appealed to people to maintain peace and calm following a bomb explosion in the temple town of Varanasi that left many injured.

Expressing concern over the blast, Manmohan Singh asked people to “maintain calm and peace, an official in the Prime Minister’s Office said.
The prime minister … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maintain calm, peace, appeals PM after Varanasi blast.

Many injured in blast near Ganga in Varanasi (Third Lead)

VARANASI – More than 20 people, including a few foreigners, were injured Tuesday when a powerful blast ripped through the bank of the Ganga during the evening ‘aarti’ ritual watched by hundreds and sparked off a stampede, authorities and witnesses said.

A large number of people had gathered at the Shitla Ghat to watch the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists not getting external support, says minister

NEW DELHI – The government Tuesday rejected the suggestion that Maoist guerrillas were getting foreign financial or military support.

There are no inputs to indicate that Left-wing extremist groups are getting assistance in terms of weapons and finance from foreign countries, Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Maken told the Lok Sabha in a …. Original article  : Maoists not getting external support, says minister.

‘Lockerbie bomber close to dying’

LONDON – A Libyan man convicted for the 1988 Lockerbie bombing in which 270 air travellers were killed is in a coma and may have only days to live, a media report said Thursday.

According to Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, the health of Abdelbaset al-Megrahi has “deteriorated badly”, the Daily Telegraph reported.
Gaddafi was speaking …. Original article  : ‘Lockerbie bomber close to dying’.

Maoists kill three in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas Thursday killed three people in Orissa, police said.

About 30-40 rebels dragged Henko Singh, 55, and Bisra Singh, 43, from their houses in Langalakata village and killed them in a forested area near the Jharkhand border, Superintendent of Police Diptesh Patnaik told IANS.
The rebels escaped into the forest after leaving … Read : Maoists kill three in Orissa.

Five Maoists held in Bengal

KOLKATA – Five Maoists have been arrested in West Bengals West Midnapore district, police said Thursday.

They included squad member Uttam Mandi who was wanted in several murder cases, Jhargram Superintendent of Police Praveen Tripathi told IANS over telephone. He was arrested Wednesday night from Jhargram.
Maoist leader Dilip Mahato and his associates Lakshmi Kanta …. Source article  : Five Maoists held in Bengal.

Tribal refuses to join Maoists, killed

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas Thursday killed a man in Koraput district of Orissa after he refused to join them, police said.

About 30 rebels dragged 35-year-old Sambaru Huika out of his home in Odiyapentha village, about 500 km from here, took him to an abandoned house nearby and killed him, a police officer told IANS.
… Read more : Tribal refuses to join Maoists, killed.

No more aartis please, says blast victim’s father

VARANASI – An inconsolable Santosh Kumar Sharma, who lost his daughter Swastika in the blast two days ago, says the traditional ‘aarti’ ritual on the banks of the Ganga should be stopped due to the poor security arrangements by authorities.

Swastika was killed in Tuesday’s terror strike that took place at the Sheetla Ghat while … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No more aartis please, says blast victim’s father.

Germany’s imams fear hate attacks

BONN – Imams have told a top German official that Muslims in Germany fear they may suffer hate attacks.

Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere responded with a condemnation, telling the panel of Islamic clergy in Bonn: “Arson attacks and graffiti on mosques can have no place in our society.”
One of the imams had just …. Source  : Germany’s imams fear hate attacks.

Man charged in plot to attack US military recruiting centre

WASHINGTON – A Maryland man was Wednesday charged in connection with a plot to attack an Armed Forces recruiting station in Catonsville, Maryland, the US Justice Department said.

Antonio Martinez, aka Muhammad Hussain, 21, of Baltimore, Maryland, was arrested Wednesday after attempting to remotely detonate what he believed were explosives in a vehicle parked in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man charged in plot to attack US military recruiting centre.

Rights groups threaten fast for Maoists’ release

KOLKATA – Demanding release of recently arrested senior Maoists, including state committee secretary Sudip Chongdar alias Kanchan, and withdrawal of forces from West Bengal’s Maoist-affected districts, civil rights groups here Wednesday threatened to hold indefinite fast from Friday.

“We will stage sit-in demonstration Dec 10 at Hazra Crossing in South Kolkata, protesting against the unlawful …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Two Somali-born men convicted for terror plans

STOCKHOLM – A Swedish court Wednesday sentenced two Somali-born men to four years each in prison for planning a terror attack in the troubled African country.

The two, aged 22 and 26, were linked to the radical Islamic al-Shabab militia and were convicted of planning a suicide attack in Somalia, the ruling said.
The five-member …. Source  : Two Somali-born men convicted for terror plans.

Maoist shutdown in Bengal evokes partial response

KOLKATA – The first day of the 48-hour shutdown the Maoists have called in West Bengal evoked some response in the Maoist-affected districts, police said.

The shutdown was observed successfully in Junglemahal areas (Maoist affected forested areas of three western districts – West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura), but there were no reports of untoward incidents, …. Original article  : Maoist shutdown in Bengal evokes partial response.

Militants abduct 11 labourers in Tripura

AGARTALA – Separatist guerrillas have abducted 11 labourers from a bridge construction site in a village in Tripura, police said here Wednesday.

“Heavily armed NLFT (National Liberation Front of Tripura) militants raided a labourers’ temporary shed at Govindabari village Tuesday night and kidnapped 11 workers at gunpoint while others managed to escape,” police spokesman Nepal … Original source on Gaea Times at : Militants abduct 11 labourers in Tripura.

Two GNLA rebels held in Meghalaya

SHILLONG – Two Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebels were arrested Wednesday in Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills and arms and ammunition were seized from them, police said.

Bijoy M. Sangma and Wimbirth Ch Marak were arrested from Williamnagar, district headquarters of East Garo Hills, district police chief Sylvester Nongtynger told IANS.
He said two pistols, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Six Maoists arrested in Bihar

PATNA – Six suspected Maoist guerrillas were Wednesday arrested in Bihar’s Gaya district, police said.

The rebels were arrested from a village under Barachatti police station in Gaya, about 100 km from state capital Patna, an official said.
Police also seized arms and ammunition from them besides cell phones and a
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Six Maoists arrested in Bihar.

Army captain, Lashkar militant killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – An army captain and a foreign guerrilla were Wednesday killed in the over 20-hour gun battle between the security forces and the holed up guerrilla in north Kashmir, police said.

A captain of counter insurgency Rashtriya Rifles, who was injured in the gunfight Tuesday, died of his injuries in the hospital Wednesday.
One …. Source article  : Army captain, Lashkar militant killed in Kashmir gunfight.

Bhatkal brothers behind Varansi blast: Police

MUMBAI – Riyaz and Iqbal Bhatkal of terror group Indian Mujahideen are responsible for Tuesday’s blast in Varanasi that claimed a small girl’s life, Mumbai Police Commissioner Sanjeev Dayal said Wednesday, adding that they were operating from Pakistan.

“The evidence gathered by the police in connection with the terror attack in Varanasi points to the …. Original source  : Bhatkal brothers behind Varansi blast: Police.

Police clueless about nature of Varanasi explosives

LUCKNOW – A day after a terror attack killed a minor girl in Varanasi, the Uttar Pradesh Police was Wednesday clueless about the nature of explosives that struck terror on the bank of the Ganga.

“We have not found any circuit, battery, remote-control device, shrapnel or splinters from the blast site. We are not able [..] Read the original article: here.

In mourning, Varanasi ‘aarti’ sees only one lamp

VARANASI – Breaking with the tradition, only one earthen lamp was lit during Wednesday evening’s ‘maha aarti’ here to protest against the previous day’s bombing that killed a girl child and injured more than 30 people.

And in contrast to the many hundreds who flock to the Ganga ghats to watch scores of ‘diyas’ float … Read more »»».

No specific input about Varanasi blast: Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh government Wednesday refuted Union Home Minister P. Chidambarams claim that the state had been forewarned against a possible terrorist strike on the ghats of Varanasi like Tuesday’s blast that killed a small girl.

“There was no specific actionable input from central intelligence agencies regarding the blast that rocked the Shitla … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No specific input about Varanasi blast: Uttar Pradesh.

Varanasi blast: Police clueless about nature of explosives

LUCKNOW – A day after a terror attack killed a young girl in Varanasi, the Uttar Pradesh Police was Wednesday clueless about the nature of explosives that struck terror on the bank of the Ganga.

“As of now we have not found any circuit, battery, remote-control device, shrapnel or splinters. We are not able to [..] Read the original article: here.

Varanasi terror e-mails tracked to Navi Mumbai

MUMBAI – Mumbai Police Commissioner Sanjeev Dayal Wednesday said that the e-mails claiming responsibility for the Varanasi blast of Tuesday evening were tracked to Navi Mumbai.

“The e-mails have been sent after hacking an unsecured WiFi (wireless internet) connection of Vashi township in Navi Mumbai, not from Mumbais western suburb Malad, Dayal told reporters.
Banned …. Original article  : Varanasi terror e-mails tracked to Navi Mumbai.

11 Taliban militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Eleven Taliban militants, including a rebel commander, were killed in fighting with the security forces in northwestern Pakistan, Xinhua reported Friday.

Three militants and a rebel commander were killed Thursday night in the Sararogha area of South Waziristan tribal region. Four soldiers were injured in the fighting.
Seven more militants were killed in … Read more : 11 Taliban militants killed in Pakistan.

Abducted Tripura tribals taken to Bangladesh

AGARTALA – Outlawed tribal extremists who abducted 11 tribals Tuesday have taken nine of the hostages to Bangladesh and released two, police said here Friday. The militants have demanded a ransom of Rs.15 lakh to release the captives.

According to the police, heavily armed National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) militants raided a labourers’ …. Source article  : Abducted Tripura tribals taken to Bangladesh.

Sylvie Cachay Found Dead

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Renowned designer Sylvie Cachay was found dead at a posh Manhattan hotel room on the early hours of Thursday. Although no one has been charged in the case as of now, the 33-year-old fashion designer’s beau Nick Brooks has been detained by authorities for questioning as he was the last person …. Read the original article  : Sylvie Cachay Found Dead.

Policeman injured in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – A policeman was injured Friday in a gunfight between security forces and separatist guerrillas in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, police said.

Superintendent of Police (Ganderbal) Syed Imtiyaz Hussain said security forces moved in to surround Gotlibagh village late Thursday following specific information about guerrillas hiding there.
When the hiding militants were challenged [..] Read the original article: here.

Bomb threat forces plane to land in Portugal

LISBON – A Portugalia Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency landing in Lisbon late Thursday after it received a bomb threat.

However, a search of the Embraer plane did not turn up anything suspicious, an airport spokesman told the Lusa news agency.
The flight was carrying 25 passengers from Marseille to Lisbon when …. Source  : Bomb threat forces plane to land in Portugal.

University Instructor Arrested for Shedding Clothes in Anatomy Class!

ATLANTA CITY (GaeaTimes.com) — The students of anatomy class of Kennesaw State University got more than what they needed to see when the professor decided to shed his clothes off during the class.
Raymond Devaughn, 57, was a part time instructor at the suburban Atlanta college. Last month during his teaching session he had taken …. Read the original article  : here.

British authorities dismiss report on Lockerbie bomber

LONDON – British authorities have dismissed a report that said the man convicted of the 1988 Lockerbie bombing – and controversially freed from jail in Britain in 2009 – was close to death.

Britain’s Sky News reported Thursday that Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, who is suffering from prostate cancer, was on a life support machine and that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British authorities dismiss report on Lockerbie bomber.

Hindus, Muslims pray at Varanasi for harmony

VARANASI – Hindus and Muslims joined hands here Thursday to pray for peace on the same Ganga ghat where a terror attack only two days ago killed a toddler and wounded over 30 people.

A few foreigners lent strength to the solemn gathering, which held candles and earthern lamps at the Sheetla Ghat.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hindus, Muslims pray at Varanasi for harmony.

Varanasi blast: UAE-based Indian Mujahideen module responsible

LUCKNOW – While Uttar Pradesh Police are yet to make any breakthrough in Tuesday’s Varanasi blast, intelligence agencies said they have traced the roots of the conspiracy to an Indian Mujahideen module based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

A report submitted by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) to the central government Thursday identified two [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Pakistan-based Indian Mujahideen behind Varanasi blast’

BRUSSELS – Indian investigators have initial leads suggesting that the Pakistan-based Indian Mujahideen terror outfit was behind the Varanasi blast, official sources said Thursday.

However, the sources said investigators were finding problems in identifying the explosives or chemicals used in Tuesday’s explosion at the Sheetla Ghat in the Uttar Pradesh temple town.
“We have no … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Pakistan-based Indian Mujahideen behind Varanasi blast’.

Two Sikh terror suspects nabbed in Germany

BERLIN – Two Indians alleged to belong to Sikh terrorist organisation Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) have been arrested, German federal prosecutors said in Karlsruhe Thursday.

The men, named only as 35-year-old Sukhpreet S and 41-year-old Jagtar S M, both Indian nationals, were detained Tuesday and remanded in custody the next day by a judge.
They … Original article on : Two Sikh terror suspects nabbed in Germany.

Columbia University Drug Bust: Five Students Arrested

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Five students of Columbia University were detained by New York authorities on Tuesday for being involved in a drug ring and selling illegal substances from the fraternity houses and dorms of the university campus. The five youths were taken into custody following a probe that was undertaken by cops in which …. Read the original article  : Columbia University Drug Bust: Five Students Arrested.

Brittany Mae Smith Found

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Brittany Mae Smith, the 12 year old girl from Virginia who had gone missing a week ago was found back on Friday in a shopping mall in San Francisco. Along with her has also been found Jeffrey Scott Easley, who is the suspect for having kidnapped her. The two were traced in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brittany Mae Smith Found.

Landmine blast kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan

KABUL – Fifteen civilians were killed when the mini-bus in which they were travelling struck a landmine in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, Xinhua reported Saturday.

“A mini-bus was heading to Khanshin district Friday afternoon when it hit a landmine, triggering a blast and leaving 15 commuters dead and four others injured,” Daud Ahmadi, spokesman for the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Landmine blast kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan.

Varanasi blast claims second victim

VARANASI – A woman from Madhya Pradesh succumbed to her injuries Saturday, becoming the second casualty of Tuesday’s Varanasi terror blast even as police are still waiting for forensic reports on the nature of explosives used.

“Phoolmani, a pilgrim in her early 40s, died this morning during treatment at the ICU of Banaras Hindu University … Original source on Gaea Times at : Varanasi blast claims second victim.

Indian Mujahideen: poison fruit of saffron politics, jehadi mindset (Comment)

Two factors have complicated the terrorism problem in India. One is Pakistan’s, or rather, the Pakistan Army’s implacable hostility. This animus has acquired a nihilistic dimension with the involvement of suicide squads patronised by the army and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which has been described as a rogue agency by none other than A.Q. Khan, “father” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian Mujahideen: poison fruit of saffron politics, jehadi mindset (Comment).

Woman injured in Varanasi blast dies

VARANASI – A woman pilgrim from Madhya Pradesh Saturday succumbed to injuries sustained in the Dec 7 Varanasi terror blast, making her the second casualty in the incident, police said.

The woman, said to be in her 40s, was undergoing treatment at Banaras Hindu University hospital. “She died Saturday morning,” Inspector Geneal, Varanasi, R.P. Singh, … Original article on : Woman injured in Varanasi blast dies.

Detained Maoists, associates launch hunger strike

KOLKATA – At least 150 prisoners, including pro-Maoist tribal group’s convenor Chhatradhar Mahato, lodged in correctional homes in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, Friday launched an indefinite hunger strike demanding their immediate release, their lawyer said.

“Over 150 people who were arrested for being ‘Maoists’ and lodged in Midnapore correctional home and Jhargram correctional home … Read more : Detained Maoists, associates launch hunger strike.

US drone attack kills four in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Four people were killed and two others were injured in a US drone attack Friday in northwest Pakistan, Xinhua reported.

The drone fired four missiles at a vehicle suspected to carrying militants in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan, a stronghold of Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
…. Read the original article  : US drone attack kills four in Pakistan.

Bring Mumbai attackers to justice: EU to Pakistan

BRUSSELS – The 27-nation European Union Friday joined India in calling upon Pakistan to bring the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai attack to justice and denounced those who provide safe havens to terrorists.

A joint declaration adopted after the 11th India-EU summit said the two sides “called upon Pakistan to expeditiously bring all the perpetrators, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bring Mumbai attackers to justice: EU to Pakistan.

15 killed in Pakistan suicide bomb attack

ISLAMABAD – At least 15 people were killed and over 20 others were injured Friday when a suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into an under-construction building of a hospital in northwest Pakistan, a media report said.

The attack took place in the Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Geo TV reported.
The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 15 killed in Pakistan suicide bomb attack.

CPI-M’s district leader gunned down in Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists shot dead a local Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader inside the party office in West Bengals Birbhum district, police said Friday.

Sasthi Bauri, a member of CPI-M’s Birbhum district committee and Khoirashole panchayat samiti member, was shot dead from point blank range when he was sitting alone inside the zonal … Read more : CPI-M’s district leader gunned down in Bengal.

Former Scientist Kenton C. Doughty Sentenced to prison-based drug treatment for Heroin Use

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) — A former water-quality scientist of Bellingham, who later turned to be a heroin dealer to lead a lavish life was sentenced to a prison based drug treatment on Dec 9, Thursday.
Kenton C. Doughty, 54 was found guilty with three counts of heroin dealing, one count of possession of heroin with …. Source  : Former Scientist Kenton C. Doughty Sentenced to prison-based drug treatment for Heroin Use.

Militant hideout busted in Meghalaya

SHILLONG – A hideout of the breakaway faction of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) was busted Sunday and five rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) were recovered, police said.

A special operation team raided the hideout in Soenang forest area,” Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtynger told IANS.
No militant was arrested in the early morning raid, he …. Read the original article  : here.

Maoists gun down two, try to blast railway station

KOLKATA – The Maoists gunned down two men associated with the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and tried to blow up a police station while four rebels were arrested in West Bengal, police said Saturday.

The two men were brothers and were shot dead in Chotopelia village in West Midnapore district Saturday.
The two victims …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists gun down two, try to blast railway station.

Nine militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Nine militants were killed Saturday in fighting with security forces in Pakistan’s northwestern Swat Valley and Mohmand tribal region, a media report said.

Five militants were killed in Swat and four more were killed in Mohmand tribal region, Dawn newspaper reported on its website quoting senior official Amjad Ali Khan.
The army said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nine militants killed in Pakistan.

Turn Nepal colleges into barracks, Maoist chief asks students

KATHMANDU – Undeterred by his party’s failure to turn Nepal into a military state constitutionally, Maoist supremo Pushpa Kamal Dahal is now urging all students to become “troops” and turn all universities and colleges into barracks.

Dahal, who refuses to drop his war name Prachanda – Hindi word meaning “awesome” – though his party signed [..] Read the original article: here.

Hang Afzal Guru for Parliament attack, demand marchers

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of students, accompanied by family members of those killed in the Parliament House terrorist attack Dec 13, 2001, Saturday took out a march in the capital, demanding immediate hanging of Mohammed Afzal Guru, who has been held guilty in the case.

The march, organised two days before the ninth anniversary [..] Read the original article: here.

Seven Maoists held, weapons seized in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Seven Maoists were Saturday arrested from the outskirts of Jharkhand’s capital Ranchi, police said.

On a tip-off, we raided a village under Khelari police station and arrested seven rebels of the Peoples Liberation Front of India. We seized four pistols and live cartridges from them, a police officer told IANS.
The Maoist-affected Khelari … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Seven Maoists held, weapons seized in Jharkhand.

US diplomat in Peshawar leaves charge after Taliban threat

ISLAMABAD – The US consulate officer in Peshawar, Elizabeth Rudd has refused to serve in Pakistan and returned to Washington after receiving threats from Taliban militants, a media report said Saturday.

“She was under stress after receiving threats from Taliban,” daily Express reported quoting local sources.
Peshawar is the capital of Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Congress saw ‘political opportunity’ post 26/11: Wikileaks

LONDON – David Mulford, then US ambassador to India, described as “outlandish and outrageous” Congress leader A.R. Antulay’s unsubstantiated claims that Hindutva forces may be behind the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and felt this has done to rally Muslim support for the party. Mulford said this in a US official memo leaked by WikiLeaks.

“The Congress … Read more : Congress saw ‘political opportunity’ post 26/11: Wikileaks.

Karkare’s widow slams Digvijay’s comment

MUMBAI – Kavita Karkare, widow of slain Maharashtra Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare, Saturday slammed Congress leader Digvijay Singh for claiming that Karkare called him hours before he was killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack to say that right-wing groups threatened his life.

“Pakistani terrorists killed my husband, Digvijay Singh is wrong,” said …. Read the original article  : Karkare’s widow slams Digvijay’s comment.

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.

Three Maoists held in Orissa with weapons

BHUBANESWAR – Three Maoist guerrillas were arrested in Orissas Mayurbhanj district early Monday, police said.

The rebels in the age group of 20-25 years were arrested from Suliapada area after police acted on a tip-off by a source, superintendent of police Dayal Gangwar told IANS, adding that a locally-made gun and 21 gelatin sticks were … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Three Maoists held in Orissa with weapons.

11 militants hanged in Iran

TEHRAN – Eleven members of the Sunni Muslim militant group Jundollah were hanged Monday in Iran’s southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, the Khabar news network reported.

The inmates were executed at a prison in the provincial capital, Zahedan, for crimes committed in the province over recent years, Khabar said.
Sistan-Baluchistan province, which borders Pakistan and Afghanistan, …. Read the original article  : 11 militants hanged in Iran.

Militants destroy NATO supply tankers in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Suspected Islamist militants in northwestern Pakistan near the Afghan border Monday torched two oil tankers carrying fuel for the NATO forces in Afghanistan, official said.

The incident took place in Khata Kashta area of Khyber, one of the seven mountainous tribal districts that are known bastions of Taliban and Al Qaeda rebels.
“Attackers …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists blow up culvert

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists blew up a culvert in Orissas Koraput district using a landmine, police said Monday.

The incident happened late Sunday near Dhepaguda village, over 600 km from here, police officer G.C. Sahu said.
…. Source  : Maoists blow up culvert.

No Indian militant camps in Bhutan, says Thinley

GUWAHATI – Bhutan Prime Minister Jigme Y. Thinley Monday said there were no Indian separatist bases in his country and pledged not to allow rebels to enter the country for shelter.

“There are no Indian militant camps or bases in my country and we shall ensure that no militants are able to enter Bhutan,” the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No Indian militant camps in Bhutan, says Thinley.

More Garo rebels to surrender: Meghalaya home minister

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Home Minister H.D.R. Lyngdoh Sunday expressed optimism that more Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebels would surrender to end their armed struggle for a sovereign Garoland.

“We are expecting more of them (GNLA rebels) to toe the line (surrender) as some of them have realised they have chosen the wrong path,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : More Garo rebels to surrender: Meghalaya home minister.

Congress plenary attacks ‘insidious’ RSS, ‘disease’ of corruption (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – A combative Congress Sunday declared a no-holds war on right-wing groups, especially the RSS on its terror links, and also outlined a four-point agenda to fight the blight of corruption that has made the party-led central government the target of repeated attacks over numerous scams.

According to the political resolution adopted at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Congress plenary attacks ‘insidious’ RSS, ‘disease’ of corruption (Roundup).

Terrorist-stone pelter nexus unearthed in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Two modules of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen were busted Sunday in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, thus unearthing a nexus between the guerrillas and the stone pelters who had resorted to violence in the Valley since June, police said.

Shafqat Ahmad Watali, deputy inspector general (DIG) of police (South Kashmir) told reporters …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Terrorist-stone pelter nexus unearthed in Kashmir.

Andhra Pradesh Police Intensifies Maoist Hunt

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Andhra Pradesh Police department once again emerged triumphant over the atrocities of the Maoists in the area. They encountered a group of Maoists in the Cherrvuru village of Chintapalli mandal, after a fierce exchange of fire between the cadres of the extremist groups and the police.
This fierce firing continued for …. Original source  : Andhra Pradesh Police Intensifies Maoist Hunt.

No civilised state can hide terrorists: Russian president

NEW DELHI – Without naming Pakistan, visiting Russian President Dmitry Medvedev Tuesday said “no civilised state can hide terrorists”.

“Terrorists are criminals. They, of course, should be punished. Those who hide terrorists conceal their crimes. No modern civilised state can hide terrorists as law abiding citizens. They are subject to punishment,” Medvedev said at a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Three Maoists arrested with 12 wireless sets

RANCHI – Three Maoist guerrillas were arrested from Jharkhand’s Bokaro district and wireless sets as well as explosives recovered from them, police said Tueday.

The three were arrested late Monday from Chandrapura of Bokaro district, around 145 km from here. Officilas said 12 wireless sets, explosives and other incriminating material have been seized.
Amongst … Read more »»».

40 kg landmine found in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A 40 kg landmine was found planted beneath a bridge in Jharkhand, police said Tuesday. The bomb disposal squad was called to defuse it.

The landmine was found planted beneath the Jamua bridge of Palamau district Tuesday morning. The landmine was planted to blast police vehicle, officials said.
…. Read the original article  : 40 kg landmine found in Jharkhand.

Al Qaeda plotting poison attack in US

WASHINGTON – Terror outfit Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) is planning to attack American food supplies with poisonous chemicals, officials said.

A source “with knowledge of the situation” said authorities have obtained information that indicated a possible plot by the AQAP to target food at hotels and restaurants in the US, perhaps slipping … Read more : Al Qaeda plotting poison attack in US.

US army wants to expand raids in Pakistan

WASHINGTON – US military commanders in Afghanistan are pushing for more ground raids across the border into Pakistan’s tribal areas, leading to a debate over the “controversial” proposal.

The plan for forays into the militant stronghold in North Waziristan has not yet been approved, but military and political leaders say a “renewed sense of … Read : US army wants to expand raids in Pakistan.

New York cops simulate 26/11 Mumbai terror attack

NEW YORK – The New York Police Department (NYPD) has conducted a simulated militant attack similar to the terror unleashed in Mumbai two years ago, a media report said Tuesday.

In the simulation, a team of terrorists launch a coordinated series of bombings and gun attacks around the city. The terrorists also attack police officials …. Original article  : New York cops simulate 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

Jessica Fashano Death Mystery Continues

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — The reason why Jessica Fashano, 27, jumped off the rooftop of the Trump Palace is still a mystery to the Police and her acquaintances. Considered to be a great person without any mental illness or trauma, Jessica had left several questions surrounding her pre-mature death.
According to her co-workers, Jessica was …. Original source  : Jessica Fashano Death Mystery Continues.

12 arrested in anti-terrorism swoop in Britain

LONDON – Police in Britain have arrested 12 men on suspicion of preparing a potential terrorist plot in an operation described by Scotland Yard as “absolutely necessary” to keep the public safe.

“The operation is in its early stages so we are unable to go into detail at this time about the suspected offences. However, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 12 arrested in anti-terrorism swoop in Britain.

Iran warns Pakistan over terrorist actions

TEHRAN – Iran will take necessary action if Pakistan continues to fail in controlling terrorist activities along its border, a top military official has said.

Brigadier General Hassan Firouzabadi, the chairman of Armed Forces Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Pakistan is Irans friend but “it falls short of controlling and stopping terrorists”, IRNA news … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran warns Pakistan over terrorist actions.

Bomb scare at Newark airport in US

NEW YORK – One of the terminals at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey was closed Monday to the public due to a security scare, a media report said.

The incident was sparked by a suspicious package at an American Airlines (AA) counter in Terminal A, ABC News reported.
The terminal was evacuated due … Read more : Bomb scare at Newark airport in US.

Bail plea of Akshardham terror attack accused admitted

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Monday admitted a bail plea filed by an accused in the 2002 Akshardham Temple terror attack.

The bench comprising Justices A.M. Kapadia and B.N. Mehta admitted the petition of Shaukatullah Ghori.
The hearing on Ghori’s bail application is scheduled for Jan 12, 2011.
Ghori was arrested in July 2009 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bail plea of Akshardham terror attack accused admitted.

Indian forces can enter Myanmar chasing terrorists

AIZAWL – Indian security forces can enter Myanmar to hunt for terrorists after taking due permission from Myanmarese authorities, it was decided here Monday.

And to boost their crackdown on Indian separatists hiding in Myanmar, it was also decided that Myanmarese security officials have promised to learn English or Hindi to overcome communication problems.
…. Original article  : Indian forces can enter Myanmar chasing terrorists.

India, Myanmar to act against terrorists

AIZAWL – India and Myanmar will work together to curb trans-border movement of terrorists, smuggling of arms and to prevent drugs trafficking, officials said here Monday.

The Indian home ministry and Myanmars Chin state have agreed to boost border security and share information on cross-border terrorism, a Mizoram home department official said.
A meeting between …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists kill CPI-M supporter

KOLKATA – Maoists shot dead a Communist party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) supporter in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Monday on charges of being a police spy, an official said.

Kali Charan Mahato, an active member of the CPI-M-affiliated All Bengal Primary Teachers Association, was dragged out of his house Sunday night and shot dead, Jhargram …. Read the original article  : here.

British commandos on alert amid Mumbai-like attack fears

LONDON – Helicopters have been readied to fly crack British special forces commandos at a moment’s notice to tackle any Christmas terror strike as “the government is taking the threat of a ‘Mumbai’ on a busy British shopping street extremely seriously”.

Chinooks and Pumas were set to fly out of the elite SAS unit’s Hereford …. Source article  : British commandos on alert amid Mumbai-like attack fears.

Douglas Perlitz’s Sordid Past Revealed

FAIRFIELD (GaeaTimes.com)- Douglas Perlitz a school founder in Haiti hailing from USA was given 20 years imprisonment for sexually abusing a number of school children while pretending to be the savior for them to the outer world. The sordid acts of the man who was hitherto regarded as a benevolent generous social worker have … Read more : Douglas Perlitz’s Sordid Past Revealed.

US government told to compensate Islamic charity

WASHINGTON – A US court has asked the government to pay compensation to an Islamic charity after it was found that then president George W. Bush had ordered wire-tapping of the organisation after the 9/11 attack.

Tuesday’s ruling by Justice Vaughn R. Walker, the chief federal judge in San Francisco, ordered the government to pay …. Source  : US government told to compensate Islamic charity.

Maoists torch five vehicles

RANCHI – Maoists set on fire five vehicles at a construction site in Jharkhand, police said Wednesday.

Around 50-60 guerrillas raided the site near Damodar river late Tuesday. They set on fire two dumpers and machines, a police official said.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man from Adams Drive Arrested for Connection with Shelton Car Accident

SHELTON (GaeaTimes.com) — A person named Nicola Urbani from Adams Drive was arrested last night on charges of stemming from a fatal car accident which took place on last April.
Bradner Cameron, 52, of Shelton was killed on April 30, when his 2005 Ford Escape collided with a 2004 Chervolet Silverado which was driven by …. Source article  : Man from Adams Drive Arrested for Connection with Shelton Car Accident.

‘Suspect’ package found in Rome underground train

ROME – A “suspect” parcel possibly containing explosives was being examined Tuesday by experts after it was found in a Rome underground train, Italian news reports said.

The package contained steel pipes and what appeared to be flammable powder, the ANSA news agency said.
“Bomb disposal experts are checking to see if the device was … Read more >>.

Swami Aseemanand to be quizzed over Samjhauta train blast

CHANDIGARH – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will question Hindu religious leader Swami Aseemanand, accused in the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast in Hyderabad, in connection with the Samjhauta train blasts that left 68 people dead in February 2007.

The NIA, according to officials, has sought the production warrant of Aseemanand from a court in Panchkula …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Shanghai Massage’ Gets Raunchy

SHANGHAI, CHINA (GaeaTimes.com)- China’s anti porn campaign may have been able to shut a few pornographic websites. However, it seems that a few desperate porn lover would not give it up easily. A few of these websites took an effort to change their language into English to serve the same raunchy purpose, violating … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Shanghai Massage’ Gets Raunchy.

President says ‘terrorists’ defaming Sri Lanka from abroad

COLOMBO – President Mahinda Rajapaksa said Tuesday that defeated “terrorist” elements abroad were defaming Sri Lanka.

His comments at a military academy came less than two weeks after he cancelled an address at the Oxford Union in London because of protests by the Tamil ethnic minority in London.
“Their latest weapon is to defame … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President says ‘terrorists’ defaming Sri Lanka from abroad.

Haneef to get ’substantial’ compensation from Australia

SYDNEY – Indian-origin doctor Mohamed Haneef, wrongly accused of being involved in terrorism, will receive a “substantial” and confidential payout from the Australian government, a media report said Tuesday.

Haneef returned to Australia last week to seek compensation, after he was wrongfully held in prison in July 2007.
The compensation claim, described by his lawyers … Read more >>.

ISI chief won’t appear in US court over 26/11

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani Thursday declared that the country’s spy master will not appear in any US court in connection with the Mumbai terror attack.

Addressing the National Assembly, he said the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) “is a sensitive agency of the Pakistani military and it is unimaginable that we will force …. Read the original article  : ISI chief won’t appear in US court over 26/11.

Rights activists await ruling on Binayak Sen

RAIPUR – Rights activists from across India are gathering here as a court is set to rule Friday in the case involving Binayak Sen, who spent two years in jail for alleged links with Maoists.

Security has been stepped up in and around the district and sessions court where judge B.P. Varma will give his … Read more »»».

Pakistan to set up national forensic agency

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has decided to establish a national forensic agency (NFA) due to the worsening law and order situation in the country and a budget of Rs.2 billion ($23 million) has been approved for setting it up, an official said.

The Express Tribune Thursday reported that the poor law and order situation prompted the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan to set up national forensic agency.

Detained Maoists call off 12-day hunger strike

KOLKATA – Maoists and pro-rebel inmates lodged in two prisons in West Bengal Wednesday withdrew their 12-day-old fast after assurances that facilities inside the jails will be improved.

The prisoners, including pro-Maoist tribal group People’s Committee Against police Atrocities (PCAPA) convenor Chhatradhar Mahato, had started an indefinite huger strike Dec 10, pressing for a 32-point …. Original article  : Detained Maoists call off 12-day hunger strike.

Two police officers arrested in Bhutto murder case

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani authorities Wednesday arrested two senior police officers for alleged dereliction of duty over the 2007 assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, a prosecutor said.

Bhutto was assassinated in a gun and suicide attack Dec 27, 2007 after addressing an election rally in Rawalpindi.
A court in Rawalpindi this month issued warrants … Read more >>.

Maoists torch vehicles in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas set on fire five vehicles belonging to a construction company on Ranchi’s outskirts late Tuesday, police said Wednesday.

The attack took place near the Damodar river, about 45 km from here. The Maoists set ablaze two dumpers and other machines, an officer said.
… Read more >>>.

Over 800 Afghan soldiers killed this year

KABUL – More than 800 Afghan soldiers have been killed in the country’s conflict with militants so far this year, more than any other since the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, a defence ministry spokesman said Wednesday.

“A total of 806 Afghan National Army soldiers have been martyred in 2010,” Zahir Azimi told … Read more >>.

Al Qaeda affiliate renews threat against Iraqi Christians

BAGHDAD – An Al Qaeda affiliate responsible for a bloody attack on a Baghdad church earlier this year renewed threats against Iraqi Christians, according to Islamist websites Wednesday.

The statement, which has not been verified, said that there would be peace only after the release of two Egyptian women that the Islamic State of Iraq …. Original article  : Al Qaeda affiliate renews threat against Iraqi Christians.

10 escape unhurt in Maoist landmine blast

KOLKATA – At least 10 people travelling in a vehicle in West Bengals West Midnapore district had a narrow escape when a landmine suspected to have been triggered by Maoists exploded Wednesday afternoon, police said. Three women have have been detained for questioning.

A landmine exploded near Balichua in between Belpahari and Kokraghor while a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 10 escape unhurt in Maoist landmine blast.

NMDC resumes full iron ore shipment after Maoist shutdown

RAIPUR – Iron ore shipment by state-run National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) Ltd has reached its peak levels after three weeks of disruption at its key mining facilities in Chhattisgarh, an official said Wednesday.

“The iron ore shipment from Bailadila hills facilities has resumed to its full capacity after being hit by a Maoist shutdown … Original source on Gaea Times at : NMDC resumes full iron ore shipment after Maoist shutdown.

NATO urged to eliminate terrorist centres abroad

KABUL – A spokesman for the Afghan ministry of defence said Wednesday that security would not be achieved in Afghanistan unless NATO eliminates “terrorist sanctuaries” abroad.

“We believe that until the funding, training, equipping and staging centres for the terrorists are not eliminated outside of Afghanistan, security will not be established in Afghanistan or in … Read more >>.

WSOC-TV Employees Threatened

CHARLOTTE (GaeaTimes.com)- Police on Tuesday arrested a woman from the Charlotte ABC affiliate WSOC-TV after she had appeared on the site and panicked the employees with her life threatening act. Reportedly the woman had threatened to end her life. The situation at the TV station was all the more dangerous as the woman was possessing … Read more >>>.

Women being recruited to fight Taliban suicide bombers

LONDON – Afghan women are being recruited for the very first time by the country’s national police to help tackle Taliban suicide bombers, a media report said Wednesday.

Earlier, women “had only been tasked with menial backroom responsibilities”.
But, with training from the British ministry of defence and the British Army, Afghan women are now …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Women being recruited to fight Taliban suicide bombers.

Policeman killed in Quetta blast

ISLAMABAD – One policeman was killed and three injured in a blast in Pakistan’s Quetta city Friday, a media report said.

The Dawn reported that the bomb was planted on a bicycle and was detonated when a police van was passing through Qambrani road of the Balochistan capital city.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Policeman killed in Quetta blast.

Blast in Pakistan school

ISLAMABAD – Two students were injured Friday in a blast in a Peshawar school, a media report said.

A classroom of the New Modern Collegiate School was damaged in the blast, Xinhua reported citing Express TV.
Bomb disposal squads and a rescue team have been dispatched to the school, officials said.
… Read more >>>.

Maoists disrupt panchayat polls in Jharkhand

RANCHI – The Maoists set on fire three vehicles and disrupted voting at a polling booth in Jharkhand’s Garwah district during the last leg of the panchayat polls Friday, police said.

“Maoist guerrillas set on fire three vehicles at Matgari of Garwah district. At one polling booth, they tried to disrupt the polling,” … Read : Maoists disrupt panchayat polls in Jharkhand.

Suresh Kalmadi’s Houses Raided By CBI

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In a sensational development that have sent waves in the media and political circles in India the CBI carried out raids on the houses of disgraced CWG Organizing Committee chief aka Suresh Kalmadi. The raids were conducted at his houses in the Indian capital and Pune in connection with CWG related …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suresh Kalmadi’s Houses Raided By CBI.

August Busch IV In Legal Soup?

Huntleigh (GaeaTimes.com)- Former Anheuser-Busch CEO August Busch IV is likely to land in a legal soup after the body of a dead woman was recovered from his home on Sunday. A 27 year old woman found dead inside August Busch IV’s St. Louis home at Huntleigh has stirred an uproar surrounding the former Budweiser beer … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : August Busch IV In Legal Soup?.

Benazir Bhutto murder: Musharraf sent questionnaire

ISLAMABAD – Pervez Musharraf has been sent a questionnaire by the interior ministry regarding the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto in 2007, when he was the president.

Dawn reported Friday that the questionnaire was sent to Musharraf, who now lives in self-exile in the UAE and London, even as two arrested former police [..] Read the original article: here.

Militants kill US spies to avenge drone attacks

WASHINGTON – Suspected American spies are being killed routinely in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal region bordering Afghanistan, apparently to avenge US drone attacks.

Tribesmen in the region have said corpses appear in fields and on roadsides almost every day with written warnings pinned to their clothes: “All American spies will meet the same fate.”
“Espionage has … Original source on Gaea Times at : Militants kill US spies to avenge drone attacks.

24 Taliban militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 24 gunmen and three soldiers were killed Friday morning after Taliban militants attacked checkposts in Pakistan’s northwestern region bordering Afghanistan, a media report said.

About 150 Taliban militants attacked five Frontier Corps checkposts in Baidnami village in Mohmand district near the border with Afghanistan, Geo News reported citing a senior security … Read : 24 Taliban militants killed in Pakistan.

Stockholm underground station evacuated over hoax

STOCKHOLM – Police evacuated a station on the Stockholm underground late Thursday after a suspicious item was spotted on the platform, eventually proving to have been a hoax, police said Friday.

Bomb disposal experts summoned to the scene destroyed the object, which appeared to have been made to look like a fake bomb, a Stockholm … Read more »»».

Anarchists claim responsibility for Rome bombings

ROME – An Italian anarchist group has claimed responsibility for two parcel bombings that targeted the Swiss and Chilean embassies in Rome Thursday, the Italian news agency Ansa reported.

A statement to that effect was recovered from a small box found next to one of the two embassy workers who were injured in the explosions.
… Read : Anarchists claim responsibility for Rome bombings.

Two injured in blasts at embassies in Rome (Fourth Lead)

LONDON – Police searched embassies and consular offices in Rome after two people were injured in separate parcel bomb blasts Thursday at the Swiss and Chilean missions in the Italian capital. The Mayor of Rome described the blasts as a “wave of terrorism against embassies”.

A Swiss employee at his embassy received serious hand injuries …. Source article  : Two injured in blasts at embassies in Rome (Fourth Lead).

CBI interrogates RSS leader; conspiracy, says Kumar (Fourth Lead)

NEW DELHI – The CBI Thursday questioned Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Indresh Kumar for more than five hours in connection with the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast in Hyderabad that killed nine people. The RSS leader described his questioning as a “political conspiracy” by the Congress.

Emerging out of the Central Bureau of Investigation office …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CBI interrogates RSS leader; conspiracy, says Kumar (Fourth Lead).

Embassy blasts rock Rome ahead of Christmas (Third Lead)

ROME – Two people were injured Thursday in separate, but similar, bomb blasts at the Swiss and Chilean embassies in Rome.

It was not immediately clear if the attacks were linked, police said.
In the first incident, which took place around midday, a parcel exploded in the hands of 53-year-old Swiss man employed in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Embassy blasts rock Rome ahead of Christmas (Third Lead).

Four LeT men in Mumbai, planning major attack: Police

MUMBAI – Four LeT men have sneaked into Mumbai and are planning a “violent” attack on the city, Joint Commissioner of Police Himanshu Roy said here Thursday evening.

“We have received information about four LeT men sneaking into the city some time back. We have released the sketch of one man Vaalid Jinnah,” said Roy.
…. Source  : Four LeT men in Mumbai, planning major attack: Police.

India keen to send panel to Pak to question 26/11 suspects

NEW DELHI – With Pakistan dragging its feet over the Mumbai attacks probe, India is keen to send a panel to Islamabad to question top Lashkar-e-Taiba mastermind of 26/11, including Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, and get voice samples of those directing the carnage. India has conveyed to Pakistan its desire to send such a commission to Islamabad, … Original source on Gaea Times at : India keen to send panel to Pak to question 26/11 suspects.

Two injured in bomb explosions in Rome (Second Lead)

Rome, Dec 23 (IANS/AKI) A pair of bombs exploded Thursday at the Swiss and Chilean embassies in Rome injuring two people. Another bomb was found at the Ukrainian embassy.

Nobody immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks that may result in the loss of both hands of the 53-year-old Swiss embassy employee who opened a package …. Read the original article  : Two injured in bomb explosions in Rome (Second Lead).

One injured in blast at Chilean embassy in Rome

ROME – A person was injured Thursday in a bomb explosion at the Chilean embassy in Rome. The incident took place just hours after a man was injured in another blast at the Swiss embassy in the Italian capital.

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was scheduled to hold urgent talks on the incidents with Interior … Read this article on Gaea Times at : One injured in blast at Chilean embassy in Rome.

Bomb explodes at Chilean embassy in Rome: Report

ROME – A bomb exploded at the Chilean embassy in Rome, just hours after a man was injured in another blast at the Swiss embassy in the Italian capital, Italian media reported Thursday.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Bomb explodes at Chilean embassy in Rome: Report.

One injured in blast at Swiss embassy in Rome

ROME – One person was “seriously” injured Thursday when a parcel exploded at the Swiss embassy in Rome, Carabinieri police officials said.

The man, an embassy employee, was taken to Rome’s Umberto I hospital where he was being treated, an official told DPA.
Police were examining the scene of the blast which took place in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : One injured in blast at Swiss embassy in Rome.

Blast at Swiss embassy in Rome: Report

ROME – One person was “seriously” injured Thursday when a parcel exploded at the Swiss embassy in Rome, the ANSA news agency reported.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blast at Swiss embassy in Rome: Report.

Bullets left behind by ULFA found in Bangladesh village

DHAKA – Bangladesh authorities have found 13,000 bullets in a village on its northeastern border with India that they say were left behind by Indian militants.

Based on information from locals, investigators said the bullets found in Bakagora village of Sherpur district belonged to insurgents from the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) who were … Read : Bullets left behind by ULFA found in Bangladesh village.

Now drink containers under scanner at North American airports

TORONTO/NEW YORK/WASHINGTON – Beverage containers also came under the scanner at US and Canadian airports from Friday as the North American countries further tightened aviation security.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority followed the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) which enforced these measures for passengers boarding flights in the country.
The TSA warned Friday that … Read more : Now drink containers under scanner at North American airports.

Back in open, but Assam’s freed rebels have lot to do

GUWAHATI – Years of life underground, then captured and put behind bars for another long stint, and finally back to the mainstream – life has turned full circle for at least five top separatist leaders currently out on bail in Assam.

This is another challenging journey that I have embarked upon after being released on …. Source  : Back in open, but Assam’s freed rebels have lot to do.

Female suicide bomber kills 42 in Pakistan (Third Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A suspected female suicide bomber killed at least 42 people in a crowd receiving food at a distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, government officials said.

Seventy others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district, where government forces are fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
…. Original article  : Female suicide bomber kills 42 in Pakistan (Third Lead).

Amnesty denounces sentencing of Sen

LONDON – Amnesty International said Saturday that the life sentence handed down to Indian rights activist Binayak Sen for his alleged Maoist links violates “international fair trial standards”.

It is also “likely to enflame tensions in the conflict-affected area” of Chhattisgarh, Amnesty said in a statement.
“Life in prison is an unusually harsh sentence for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Seven killed in Nigeria bomb attacks

NAIROBI/LAGOS – A series of bomb attacks on Christmas eve left at least seven people dead in Nigeria, a news report said Saturday.

At least nine explosions hit different parts of Plateau State in the centre of the country within an hour of each other late Friday, the Daily Sun reported.
A police officer … Original article on : Seven killed in Nigeria bomb attacks.

Suicide bomber kills 30 in northwest Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A suicide bomber detonated his explosives among a group of people receiving supplies from a UN food distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, killing at least 30 people, a government official said.

Seventy others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district where government forces are … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Suicide bomber kills 30 in northwest Pakistan.

Five killed in blast at Pakistan checkpoint

ISLAMABAD – At least five people were killed in a bomb blast at a security post in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border Saturday, a government official said.

Ten others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district where government forces are fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
…. Original article  : Five killed in blast at Pakistan checkpoint.

Now thermoses, coffee cups added to terror weapons list

WASHINGTON – Air travellers carrying thermoses or coffee cups at US airports may be subject to extra scrutiny during this holiday season as such items could be used to conceal explosive materials, according to an official advisory.

Officials note no specific threat regarding thermos bottles and cups, but the warning to Christmas Eve travellers and …. Original article  : Now thermoses, coffee cups added to terror weapons list.

Bomb explodes in Philippines church

MANILA – An improvised bomb exploded Saturday at the roof of a Catholic church in the southern Philippines, injuring six people attending a Christmas Day mass, a regional military spokesman said.

Among those wounded was the priest who was celebrating the mass at the chapel of a police camp on Jolo Island, 1,000 km south … Read more : Bomb explodes in Philippines church.

Israeli airstrike leaves three wounded in Gaza

GAZA – Israeli warplanes carried out three airstrikes late Friday against targets in the Gaza Strip, medical staff and witnesses said.

Israeli F-16s flying over the coastal enclave fired two missiles at susepcted smuggling tunnels on the border between southern Gaza and Egypt. No injuries were reported, witnesses said.
Israel said the tunnels are used …. Read the original article  : here.

Attack on US embassy in Afghan capital thwarted: NATO

KABUL – NATO-led forces killed two suspected insurgents in central Kabul Friday after receiving intelligence that the men had planned to attack the US embassy, the alliance said.

The operation was conducted by joint Afghan and NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops in response to a “credible threat” to the US embassy, the military … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attack on US embassy in Afghan capital thwarted: NATO.

Suspected Maoists kill four in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists killed four political activists, including two of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) while two rebels were nabbed in West Bengal Friday.

Police said two CPI-M workers were killed in the Belpahari police station area under Jhargram sub-division of West Midnapore district.
Manorajan Mahto and Rathindranath Gop were abducted from … Read : Suspected Maoists kill four in West Bengal.

PM warns of terror becoming internal problem

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday warned against the danger of terrorism becoming “an internal intruding problem” and underlined that if Maoism is not curbed, India will have to bid goodbye to to its ambitions of 10-11 percent annual growth.

“We must also recognize that today I think there are dangers that … Read more »».

Iraqi man kills daughter after she joins Al Qaeda

BAGHDAD – An Iraqi man killed his daughter after he discovered that she had been recruited by Al Qaeda, police sources said Friday.

“Nijm Abd turned himself in to police after killing his daughter when he discovered she works with Al Qaeda to carry out bombing attacks in Baquba city,” the sources told DPA.
The …. Original source  : Iraqi man kills daughter after she joins Al Qaeda.

PM warns of terror modules, internal terrorism

NEW DELHI – Asking budding police officers to tackle terrorism, Maoism and communalism, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday underlined that the problem of home-grown terror needs to be dealt with sensitivity.

“We must also recognize that today I think there are dangers that terrorism can become an internal intruding problem as well,” Manmohan Singh … Original article on : PM warns of terror modules, internal terrorism.

Pakistan clashes kill 11 soldiers, 24 militants (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – Fierce clashes between the Taliban militants and security personnel at five security checkposts in Pakistan’s restive northwest left 11 soldiers and 24 militants dead Friday, an official said.

Around 150 militants attacked the checkposts in a tribal area of Mohmand Agency in the wee hours of Friday, Online news agency reported quoting security … Original article on : Pakistan clashes kill 11 soldiers, 24 militants (Second Lead).

Binayak Sen Sentenced For Sedition

RAIPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- An Additional District and Sessions Court in Raipur, the capital of Chattishgarh today gave life sentence to Dr Binayak Sen along with two others for trying to provide aid to naxalites in establishing a network. The others are Piyush Guha a Calcutta based businessman and Narayan Sanyal a Naxal ideologue. After … Read more >>.

Barbie Doll Issues Threat

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Barbie doll which is a big asset for all the little girls is having its tryst with the law after FBI issued out warning notices with regard to the latest “Barbie Video Girl”. The doll which has a secret camera hidden inside its body stirred uproar after an individual convicted of …. Original article  : Barbie Doll Issues Threat.

Maoists kill CRPF trooper in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoists killed a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district Friday during the fifth and final phase of panchayat polls in the state, police said.

“One CRPF personnel was killed and three others were injured in a landmine blast near Nagratonagra village. The security personnel were returning after conducting …. Original article  : Maoists kill CRPF trooper in Jharkhand.

Are Maoists on the backfoot in Orissa?

BHUBANESWAR – Offensives by security forces and the refusal of people to join have hit hard Maoists in Orissa, police say. But experts are not so sure and say the guerrillas are only lying low.

“The Maoists have weakened. They are not getting support. They are not able to increase their strength as people are …. Source article  : Are Maoists on the backfoot in Orissa?.

Suicide attack in Pakistan affront to humanity: Obama

ISLAMABAD – US President Barack Obama condemned Saturday’s suicide attack in northwestern Pakistan in which 44 people were killed, saying the terror strike is “an affront to humanity”.

“I strongly condemn the outrageous terrorist attack in Khar, Pakistan,” Obama said in a statement from Hawaii, US, where he was celebrating Christmas with his family.
…. Read the original article  : Suicide attack in Pakistan affront to humanity: Obama.

Attack in Pakistan affront to humanity: Obama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama condemned a suicide bombing in Pakistan that left at least 44 people dead at a UN World Food Programme distribution point Saturday.

“Killing innocent civilians outside a World Food Programme distribution point is an affront to the people of Pakistan, and to all humanity,” Obama said in a statement … Read more »»».

Bomb blasts, church attacks kill 29 in Nigeria (Second Lead)

ABUJA/LAGOS – Twenty-nine people were killed in a series of bomb blasts and attacks on churches in Nigeria on Christmas eve, officials said Saturday.

According to Xinhua, at least 23 people were killed in the blasts that rocked restive Jos city, capital of the Plateau State, a local hospital official said.
Another 32 victims were …. Original source  : Bomb blasts, church attacks kill 29 in Nigeria (Second Lead).

Dutch police arrest 12 Somali terror suspects

ROTTERDAM – Police have arrested 12 Somali men suspected of planning a terrorist attack in the Netherlands, Dutch public prosecutors said Saturday.

The arrests took place Friday evening in the port city of Rotterdam after the Dutch secret service, the AIVD, received concrete evidence of the men’s plans, the public prosecutor said.
Islamic extremists have … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dutch police arrest 12 Somali terror suspects.

23 killed in Nigeria blasts

LAGOS – At least 23 people were killed in a series of bomb blasts that rocked Nigeria’s restive Jos city on the Christmas eve, a local hospital official said Saturday.

Another 32 victims were receiving treatment in hospital, Ishaya Pam, chief medical director at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), was quoted as saying by … Read more »»».

Iraqi Christians celebrate Christmas amid tight security

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Christians celebrated Christmas quietly Saturday, amid tight security over concerns of sectarian attacks.

Most Christians headed to churches near their homes and businesses to attend services held Saturday morning instead of Christmas Eve for more security.
Leading Shia politician Ammar al-Hakim, head of the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, attended the mass held …. Source  : Iraqi Christians celebrate Christmas amid tight security.

Suicide bombing, helicopter raids kill 84 in Pakistan (Sixth Lead)

ISLAMABAD – Eighty-four people were killed Saturday in a suicide bombing and government helicopter attacks in the tribal region along Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan, officials said.

A female suicide bomber targeted a crowd collecting food at a distribution centre run by the UN’s World Food Programme, killing 44 people.
Seventy others were injured in the …. Source article  : Suicide bombing, helicopter raids kill 84 in Pakistan (Sixth Lead).

Female suicide bomber kills 44 in Pakistan (Fifth Lead)

Islamabad, Dec 25 (IANS/DPA) A female suicide bomber wearing a burqa exploded herself in a crowd receiving food at a UN distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday killing 44 people, officials said.

Seventy others were injured in the devastating attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district where government forces have been … Read more »»».

Trooper killed in Bengal landmine blast by Maoists

KOLKATA – An elite anti-Maoist battalion central trooper was killed and four others were injured in a landmine blast during an exchange of fire between the security forces and the guerrillas in West Bengal’s Purulia district, an official said Saturday.

“There was a landmine blast while the gunbattle was on,” State Home Secretary Samar Ghosh …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Saudi forces kill suspected militant disguised as woman

RIYADH – Saudi Arabian security forces shot dead a suspected Islamist militant disguised as a woman, after he opened fire at them during a checkpoint inspection, local media said Saturday.

The man, wearing a woman’s face-veil and black clothes, opened fire after security stopped his car Friday evening in the central town of Wadi Al-Dawasir, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Saudi forces kill suspected militant disguised as woman.

Female suicide bomber kills 43 in Pakistan (Fourth Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A suspected female suicide bomber killed at least 43 people in a crowd receiving food at a distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, officials said.

Seventy others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district, where government forces are fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
Local …. Original article  : Female suicide bomber kills 43 in Pakistan (Fourth Lead).

Judge Sen’s case with enlightened reason: Academicians

NEW DELHI – Expressing shock at the Chhattisgarh court’s judgment on rights activist and doctor Binayak Sen, academicians across the country and abroad issued a statement Monday condemning the life sentence and said that his case must be judged with “enlightened reason”.

Raipur district and sessions court Dec 24 sentenced Sen to life imprisonment …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Judge Sen’s case with enlightened reason: Academicians.

Pakistan food aid programme halted after suicide attack

WASHINGTON – A UN agency has temporarily shutdown its food aid programme in Pakistan’s restive tribal region after a suicide bomb attack on one of its posts killed 46 people.

The Wall Street Journal reported Monday that the World Food Program (WFP), which has four ration distribution centres in Bajaur tribal region to feed up …. Source  : Pakistan food aid programme halted after suicide attack.

Six militants killed in Pakistan drone attack

ISLAMABAD – At least six militants were killed in a fresh drone attack in Pakistan’s North Waziristan tribal region Monday, official sources said.

The US unmanned aircraft fired four missiles at a car at about 9 a.m. in Shair Tala, 15 km from Mir Ali town, killing six militants, Online news agency reported quoting official … Read more : Six militants killed in Pakistan drone attack.

Maoists torch houses of three CPI-M supporters in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Armed Maoists torched houses of three supporters of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) in two villages of West Midnapore district in West Bengal late Sunday night, police said.

Two Maoists along with some members of the pro-rebel People’s Committee Against Police Atrocities (PCAPA) activists raided the Bachurkhoire and Nubasai villages and set … Read more »».

Little evidence on who planned, killed Benazir: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has “little conclusive evidence about who planned or perpetrated the assassination” of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, a leading Pakistani daily said.

An editorial in the Dawn Monday said: “…Benazir Bhutto fell victim to an organised terrorist attack after a rally in Rawalpindi`s Liaquat Bagh, it is difficult not to juxtapose the … Read more >>.

Four Turkish engineers kidnapped in Afghanistan

KABUL – Four Turkish engineers and their driver were kidnapped Sunday in southeastern Afghanistan, an official said.

Unknown gunmen abducted the engineers in Patan, a district in Paktia province, which borders Pakistan.
“Four Turkish engineers working with a border police unit were kidnapped along with their Afghan driver and have been taken away to an …. Read the original article  : Four Turkish engineers kidnapped in Afghanistan.

US drone attack counter-productive: Pakistani PM

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Sunday condemned US drone attacks in the country’s restive northwest, terming them counter-productive in the fight against terrorism.

Gilani said that the drone attacks were increasing Pakistan’s problems instead of solving them and asked the US to provide the drone technology to Pakistan so that it could …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US drone attack counter-productive: Pakistani PM.

UN chief slams Pakistan suicide attack

NEW YORK – UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon slammed a suicide bombing in Pakistan which killed 46 people at a food distribution centre, according to an overnight statement Sunday.

“He unequivocally condemns this abhorrent act of terrorism aimed at innocent people,” said the statement from Ban. He sent his “heartfelt condolences” to Pakistan.
A suspected … Read more >>.

Toll in Pakistan suicide attack rises to 46

ISLAMABAD – At least 46 people were killed and around 100 injured in Saturday’s suicide bombing carried out by a suspected female attacker in Pakistan’s restive tribal region, a government official said Sunday.

The bomber detonated her explosives in a crowd receiving food at a distribution centre run by UN World Food Programme (WFP) in … Original article on : Toll in Pakistan suicide attack rises to 46.

CRPF trooper killed in Chhattisgarh Maoist attack

RAIPUR – A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper was killed Sunday in an attack by Maoists in the jungle areas of Chhattisgarhs restive Bastar region, police said.

The killing was reported from Konta area in Dantewada, some 480 km south of capital Raipur.
“When a CRPF contingent was on a search drive, a bullet …. Read the original article  : CRPF trooper killed in Chhattisgarh Maoist attack.

Explosives, bullets found in Bangladesh

DHAKA – Bangladesh authorities have seized explosives, bullets, hand grenades and propaganda material allegedly left behind by Indian militants in a village on this country’s northeastern border with India, a media report said Sunday.

The seizure Saturday by the Bangladesh Border Guard came a week after the discovery of about 13,000 bullets.
The seized items … Read : Explosives, bullets found in Bangladesh.

US drone strike kills seven in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – An unmanned US aircraft Tuesday fired four missiles into two compounds in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border, killing seven people, security officials said.

The attack raised the death toll to 25 from drone airstrikes within 24 hours against suspected Taliban and Al Qaeda hideouts.
An intelligence official said the drone fired … Read : US drone strike kills seven in Pakistan.

Chidambaram visits Gadchiroli to review security

MUMBAI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday visited the Maoist stronghold of Gadchiroli district in eastern Maharashtra to review the security scenario and discuss development plans for the area, an official said.

Chidambaram was accompanied by Maharashtra’s Home Minister R.R. Patil and Director General of Police D. Sivanandan.
Chidambaram met Gadchiroli District Collector …. Source  : Chidambaram visits Gadchiroli to review security.

Partial response to shutdown call in West Bengal

KOLKATA – The first day of a 48-hour shutdown called by the pro-Maoist People’s Committee Against Police Atrocities (PCAPA) in West Bengal’s three western districts Tuesday evoked partial impact, police said.

“The shutdown was observed in the Junglemahal areas (Maoist affected forested areas of West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura), but there were no untoward …. Source  : Partial response to shutdown call in West Bengal.

Toll in Nigeria blasts reaches 80

ABUJA – The toll in the Christmas eve bomb blasts that rocked Nigeria’s restive Jos city has reached at least 80, the authorities said Monday.

According to Xinhua, the number of people injured in the attacks has crossed 100, Al Hassan Danjuma Aliu, the north central zonal manager at the National Emergency Management Agency, said …. Read the original article  : Toll in Nigeria blasts reaches 80.

Morocco arrests six men suspected of planning attacks

RABAT – Moroccan police have arrested six men suspected of planning to carry out attacks in Morocco and overseas, the interior ministry said Monday.

“A six-strong terrorist network involved in cybernetic terrorism was recently dismantled,” according to Morocco’s state news agency MAP.
The ministry, which released a statement to MAP, did not specify when the …. Original article  : Morocco arrests six men suspected of planning attacks.

Nationwide terror alert sounded

NEW DELHI – The home ministry Monday issued a nationwide terror alert after intelligence inputs suggested that cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Agra, among others, might be targets of terror attacks in the coming days.

The red alert comes days after Mumbai Police said four men of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) group had entered the city … Read : Nationwide terror alert sounded.

UN probe of Benazir assassination flawed: Zardari

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari Monday said the UN probe into the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto has certain flaws in it.

“We decided to go for the probe by UN to ensure impartiality,” he said while addressing a gathering marking the third death anniversary of Bhutto in Nodero, her ancestral … Read : UN probe of Benazir assassination flawed: Zardari.

Bangladesh crackdown puts pressure on ULFA chief

SHILLONG – The crackdown on the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) in Bangladesh will force its elusive leader Paresh Baruah to rethink his intransigent stand, a top official said Monday.

“Baruah is under tremendous pressure because of the crackdown by Bangladeshi authorities. He will give up some day,” Inspector General of Border Security Force …. Original source  : Bangladesh crackdown puts pressure on ULFA chief.

Secret UN maps show Afghan security worsening

WASHINGTON – The Afghan security situation has deteriorated this year, secret UN maps have revealed, countering the US government’s assessments of military progress since the surge of additional American troops began a year ago, a media report said.

The Wall Street Journal said it has accessed two confidential “residual risk accessibility” maps, one compiled by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Secret UN maps show Afghan security worsening.

Eight killed, 50 injured in Iraq suicide blasts

RAMADI – At least eight people — including four policemen — were killed and 50 injured Monday in two suicide attacks near a government compound in the city of Ramadi.

The first blast came from a suicide bomber in a car near the Ramadi government compound, around 110 km west of Baghdad, Aswat al-Iraq news …. Source article  : Eight killed, 50 injured in Iraq suicide blasts.

NATO says Afghan war to escalate in 2011

KABUL – A senior officer of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said Monday that the war in Afghanistan would escalate in 2011 as the coalition pursues militants.

“There is no end to the fighting season; we need to keep pressure on the Taliban all over the country,” ISAF spokesman Brigadier General Joseph Blotz …. Source  : NATO says Afghan war to escalate in 2011.

Indian origin man charged with Britain terror plot

LONDON – Nine people, including a man of Indian origin, have been charged with conspiracy to cause explosions and plotting terror attacks in Britain, a media report said Monday.

The suspects, who were arrested a week ago during a series of dawn raids by police, will appear in a London court Monday, the Daily Telegraph …. Source article  : Indian origin man charged with Britain terror plot.

Karnataka put on high alert over year-end terror threat

BANGALORE – Police and paramilitary forces in Karnataka, particularly in the coastal areas, have been placed on high alert following warnings of possible terror strikes in the coming days, Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa said here Monday.

“A high alert has been sounded in the state, especially in coastal districts following advice from the central … Read : Karnataka put on high alert over year-end terror threat.

Maoist damage rail tracks, NMDC shipments at halt

RAIPUR – Iron ore shipments by NMDC Ltd, India’s largest iron ore producer and exporter in the public sector, were halted Monday from its key mines in Chhattisgarh after Maoists damaged rail tracks, police officials said.

“The iron ore transportation has been stopped since Monday early hours as the tracks have been damaged by Maoists, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoist damage rail tracks, NMDC shipments at halt.

18 killed in Pakistan drone attacks

ISLAMABAD – At least 18 suspected militants were killed in a series of missile strikes by US drones in North Waziristan, Pakistan’s restive tribal region, a media report said Monday.

“The first drone fired missiles in Sher Tala area of Spinwam and killed six suspected militants,” Geo TV reported.
The second attack Monday afternoon fired …. Read the original article  : 18 killed in Pakistan drone attacks.

Six killed, 45 injured in suicide blasts in Iraq

RAMADI – At least six people – including four policemen – were killed and 45 injured Monday in two suicide attacks near a government compound in the city of Ramadi.

The first blast came from a suicide bomber in a car near the Ramadi Government Compound, around 110 km west of Baghdad, Aswat al-Iraq news …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Six killed, 45 injured in suicide blasts in Iraq.

Pakistani cop moves court to reclaim ransom paid to Taliban

ISLAMABAD – A policeman has moved the Peshawar High Court against the police department to get back Rs.500,000 that his family paid to the Taliban for his release from captivity.

Head Constable Pir Jamal petitioned the court against the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Department for reclaiming the ransom money, Daily Times reported Wednesday.
He said …. Source  : Pakistani cop moves court to reclaim ransom paid to Taliban.

Pro-Maoist shutdown hits parts of three Bengal districts

KOLKATA – Normal life was thrown out of gear in parts of three Maoist-affected West Bengal districts Wednesday, the second day of the 48-hour shutdown called by the pro-rebel Peoples’ Committee Against Police Atrocities (PCAPA).

The tribal group is protesting the arrest of its leaders.
No buses moved on the roads in Junglemahal …. Source article  : Pro-Maoist shutdown hits parts of three Bengal districts.

Basque terrorists jailed for 515 years

MADRID – Two members of the Basque separatist movement ETA have received prison terms of 515 years each for a car bomb attack that killed a policeman, according to the verdict published Tuesday.

Judges at the National Court in Madrid said the pair detonated the car bomb outside a paramilitary Civil Guards barracks in May …. Source  : Basque terrorists jailed for 515 years.

Maoists damage rail tracks in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoists targeted railway tracks in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region for the second consecutive day Tuesday, causing the derailment of two engines and disrupting train services, police said.

“Maoists damaged rail tracks up to 52 metres in a forested pocket in Dantewada district near Bhansi railway station where two engines derailed,” Gaur Gopal, in … Read more : Maoists damage rail tracks in Chhattisgarh.

Chidambaram visits Maoist-affected Gadchiroli

GADCHIROLI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday visited the Maoist stronghold of Gadchiroli district in eastern Maharashtra to review the security scenario and discuss development plans for the area, an official said.

“He (Chidambaram) was here to review security measures taken by the district police along with the CRPF,” said Gadichiroli Collector Atul Patney. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram visits Maoist-affected Gadchiroli.

Eight killed in Iraq

MOSUL – Eight people were killed, five of them police officers, in two separate incidents in the northern Iraqi province of Mosul Tuesday.

In the western part of Mosul, five Iraqi policemen were killed and three others wounded when a car bomb targeted their patrol.
Meanwhile, Iraqi security forces said they killed three gunmen and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Eight killed in Iraq.

US alarmed at thousands of Taliban, rebels missing in Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The US is alarmed over reports that thousands of captured Taliban insurgents and political separatists have disappeared into the hands of Pakistan’s police and security forces, and that some may have been tortured or killed.

According to the New York Times, a State Department report presented to the Congress last month had urged …. Original source  : US alarmed at thousands of Taliban, rebels missing in Pakistan.

Chhattisgarh in spotlight, but for wrong reasons (2010 in Retrospect)

RAIPUR – It marked a decade of its formation, but 2010 was also a black mark year for Chhattisgarh that found itself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons – be it Maoists increasing their spread, killing 76 troopers in the worst attack in four decades of insurgency or a court sentencing rights …. Source article  : Chhattisgarh in spotlight, but for wrong reasons (2010 in Retrospect).

Bomb blast outside court in Athens

ATHENS – A bomb exploded outside a court in the Greek capital Athens Thursday after an anonymous warning call, a police source and witnesses said.

The device was planted on a motorbike parked in front of the building in the city centre, according to unofficial reports from the police.
Witnesses reported seeing burning cars and … Read : Bomb blast outside court in Athens.

Explosion in Athens

ATHENS – A bomb blast took place at a court in central Athens early Thursday, a police source said.

Witnesses reported seeing burning cars and a cloud of smoke coming from the building.
There were no immediate reports of any injuries. A witness told reporters that the police evacuated the building before the explosion.
An …. Read the original article  : Explosion in Athens.

Human intelligence aid drone attacks in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – US drones are now having enhanced ability to hit targets in Pakistan’s mountainous North Waziristan tribal region, thanks to the effectiveness of “real-time (human) intelligence”, security officials have said.

The turnaround in information gathering for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in North Waziristan, once considered an intelligence black hole, could not have come … Read more : Human intelligence aid drone attacks in Pakistan.

Malik should’ve told Benazir not to look out, says top cop

ISLAMABAD – It was the responsibility of Rehman Malik, who was then in charge of Benazir Bhutto’s security and now is the country’s interior minister, to prevent the former prime minister from looking out of her vehicle, said a senior police official who has been arrested for her 2007 assassination.

Former Rawalpindi city police chief …. Original article  : Malik should’ve told Benazir not to look out, says top cop.

Are Maoists losing ground in West Bengal?

KOLKATA – When Maoists derailed a train in West Bengal in May killing 148 people, the guerrillas appeared to be on the offensive. As 2010 draws to a close, however, the rebels seem to be on the backfoot, due mainly to killings and arrests of rebels by security forces.

While Lalgarh in West Midnapore was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Suspicious parcel found at US Embassy to the Vatican: Report

ROME – Italian police bomb experts were dispatched Wednesday to investigate a “suspicious package” found at the US Embassy to the Vatican in Rome, news reports said.

The alarm follows last week’s explosions of parcel bombs at the Swiss and Chilean embassies, and the discovery and deactivation of a similar device at the Greek embassy …. Original source  : Suspicious parcel found at US Embassy to the Vatican: Report.

Five arrested for alleged plan to attack Danish newspaper

COPENHAGEN – Five people have been arrested on suspicion of planning an attack on the Danish newspaper that in 2005 published controversial caricatures of the Muslim prophet Mohammed, the Danish secret service PET said Wednesday.

The PET said that an armed “attack against the Copenhagen offices of the Jyllands-Posten” had been imminent.
Four suspects were … Read : Five arrested for alleged plan to attack Danish newspaper.

Two Afghan army soldiers, four insurgents killed

KABUL – Two Afghan soldiers and four suspected Taliban fighters have been killed in Afghanistan, officials said Wednesday.

“Two national army soldiers were martyred and another was injured in a suicide bombing,” the defence ministry said in a statement.
The bombing took place in the south-eastern province of Paktia Tuesday, it said, without giving further …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hospitalised Maoist commander arrested

RANCHI – A Maoist commander who was undergoing treatment at a hospital on the outskirts of Ranchi for the past few days was arrested Wednesday, police said.

According to a police officer, Sanjay Yadav was arrested from a hospital in McCluskieganj town, some 55 km from Ranchi.
Sanjay is wanted in several cases, the …. Read the original article  : here.

Buddhadeb hits back at ‘far from impartial’ Chidambaram

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has strongly objected to union Home Minister P. Chidamabaram’s use of a “nasty” word to describe Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) workers and attacked the Trinamool Congress for organising meetings with Maoist outfits.

The chief minister also admitted that the situation in the state was not a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Benazir assassination plot hatched at brigadier’s home: report

ISLAMABAD – The plot to assassinate former prime minister Benazir Bhutto in 2007 was hatched at the official residence of an army brigadier, a fresh probe report has disclosed in a dramatic revelation.

The new probe conducted under the interior ministry’s supervision has also found the role of nine men, including the army brigadier, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Former Maoist child soldiers learn to shoot – with camera

KATHMANDU – It was not a desire to change the world but his grinding poverty that made Nar Bahadur Sunuwar join the underground Maoist guerrillas when he was only 12.

Living in a village in northern Nepal’s almost inaccessible Humla district that was four days’ trek away from the district headquarters and had …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bomb blast at Athens nightclub

ATHENS – A bomb exploded outside a closed nightclub in Athens early Friday but no one was injured, officials said.

The blast caused slight damage, according to fire brigade officials.
Media reports said police were assuming that the criminal underworld was behind the blast.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Bomb blast at Athens nightclub.

Pakistan to contest US court notices to ISI officials

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Thursday said it will challenge in court a US lawsuit accusing officials of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of providing material support for the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, Xinhua reported.

“The government of Pakistan has taken a firm decision to strongly contest the suit filed against the ISI, its present and past … Read more »».

Rights activist Kannabiran dead

HYDERABAD – Eminent human rights activist and lawyer K.G. Kannabiran passed away here Thursday after a brief illness. He was 82.

He is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters.
The last rites of Kannabiran were performed Thursday night at Maredpally in Secunderabad.
Andhra Pradesh Panchayat Raj Minister K. Jana Reddy and Maoist … Read : Rights activist Kannabiran dead.

Online Al Qaeda magazine provided bomb tips to terror suspects

LONDON – Nine men arrested in Britain on terrorism charges last week found inspiration and bomb-making instructions in an English-language online magazine published by Al Qaeda, a media report said Thursday.

The revelation, relayed by British newspapers, provided the first purported link between the nine British-based suspects, some of Bangladeshi origin, and an anti-Western terrorism …. Original source  : Online Al Qaeda magazine provided bomb tips to terror suspects.

India presses Myanmar for action against insurgent groups

NEW DELHI – India Thursday conveyed its concerns to Myanmar at activities of insurgent groups operating on their border and sought to strengthen intelligence sharing mechanism with the energy-rich country.

Home Secretary G.K. Pillai met Myanmar’s Deputy Minister for Home Affairs U. Phone Swi for the 16th round of home secretary-level talks.
Issues …. Original source  : India presses Myanmar for action against insurgent groups.

No night move for trains in Maoist-hit areas till Jan 6

KOLKATA – The restrictions on movement of passenger trains during night in Maoist-affected areas of West Bengal, Orissa and Jharkhand will continue till Jan 6, the South Eastern Railway said here Thursday.

“In view of security reasons, running of passenger trains on Kharagpur-Adra, Chakradharpur-Rourkela and Kharagpur-Tata section will continue to remain suspended up to Jan …. Original article  : No night move for trains in Maoist-hit areas till Jan 6.

Roadside bomb kills 10 Afghan civilians

KABUL – At least 10 Afghan civilians were killed and several injured Thursday in a roadside bombing in the southern province of Helmand, officials said.

The bomb triggered by militants went off in a crowded area of the Nahr-e-Saraj district and killed more than 10 people, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said.
Daoud …. Read the original article  : Roadside bomb kills 10 Afghan civilians.

US streamline watch list database to thwart terror

WASHINGTON – Now a single tip about a terror link will be enough for inclusion in the watch list for US sleuths who have also evolved a quicker system to share the database of potential terrorists among screening agencies.

The master watch list of individuals with suspected links to terrorism is used to screen people …. Original source  : US streamline watch list database to thwart terror.

Suspects in Denmark hearing deny plot to attack newspaper

COPENHAGEN – Three men arrested in Denmark on suspicion of planning an attack on a Danish newspaper denied the allegations when their remand custody hearing opened Thursday outside Copenhagen.

Prosecutor Lykke Sorensen said they were suspected of terrorist crimes and firearms offences, noting that a submachine gun and a handgun had been seized by police.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suspects in Denmark hearing deny plot to attack newspaper.

ULFA chairman gets freed on bail

GUWAHATI – Arabinda Rajkhowa, chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and one of India’s most wanted fugitives, was Thursday freed on bail, a year after he was captured by Bangladesh and handed over to Indian authorities in Assam.

A special TADA court Thursday gave the verdict after the government prosecutor gave … Original article on : ULFA chairman gets freed on bail.