Crime Watch – Weekly Newsletter for January 3-10, 2011

US seeks to scan travellers at Pakistani airports

ISLAMABAD – The US has sought data of all passengers flying out from Pakistan and proposed to deploy American security officials at Pakistan’s airports to thwart terror attacks on its soil, a Pakistani Foreign Office official has revealed.

According to the official, Washington had been pushing Pakistan for months to give it access to the …. Original article  : US seeks to scan travellers at Pakistani airports.

Road ahead challenging, want meaningful solution: Rajkhowa

LAKWA – The euphoria and the sense of jubilation is beginning to die down as one of India’s most wanted terrorists until recently and chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), Arabinda Rajkhowa, is beginning to realize that the road ahead is bumpy.

Rajkhowa was released on bail Saturday after a year …. Original article  : Road ahead challenging, want meaningful solution: Rajkhowa.

Former Hurriyat chairman blames guerrillas for brother’s murder

SRINAGAR – Senior separatist leader and former chairman of the moderate Hurriyat group, Professor Abdul Gani Bhat, Monday blamed separatist gunmen for the murder of his brother in 1995.

Bhat, who is chairman of the separatist Muslim Conference, has always been in disagreement with the hardline separatist leader, Syed Ali Geelani, and this is well …. Read the original article  : Former Hurriyat chairman blames guerrillas for brother’s murder.

Life in Chhattisgarh hit as Maoists protest

RAIPUR – Normal life was hit in the forested areas of Chhattisgarh for the second consecutive day Monday as the Maoists continued their Jan 2-8 protest week against the conviction of rights activist Binayak Sen and two others, police said.

The protest against the Dec 24 court verdict awarding life terms to Sen, Maoist ideologue … Original article on : Life in Chhattisgarh hit as Maoists protest.

Maoists ready for talks if Azad’s killing probed: Agnivesh

KOLKATA – The Maoists are prepared for talks if the central government initiates a judicial probe into the death of rebel leader Azad alias Cherukuri Rajkumar, social activist Swami Agnivesh said here Sunday.

“The Maoists have demanded a judicial inquiry into Azad’s killing. If the central government accepts the demand and begins a probe, then …. Read the original article  : Maoists ready for talks if Azad’s killing probed: Agnivesh.

Maoist commander arrested in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A Maoist commander wanted in more than 17 criminal cases was arrested from Jharkhand’s Chatra district Sunday, police said.

According to police, Devendra Ganju, zonal commander of Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC), was arrested on a tip-off from the Simeria area. Incriminating documents were recovered from him.
The TPC is active in seven …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoist commander arrested in Jharkhand.

Maoist protest hits life in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Normal life was badly hit Sunday in the interior districts of Chhattisgarh after the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist launched its “protest week” against the conviction of human rights activist Binayak Sen. However, no violence has been reported, police said.

Roads were blocked and shops downed the shutters in areas bordering the state’s …. Original article  : Maoist protest hits life in Chhattisgarh.

Egypt tightens security around churches after bombing

CAIRO – Authorities in Egypt imposed tight security around churches across the country Sunday, in the wake of a suicide bombing outside a church in Alexandria that 21 people and injured nearly 100.

The Interior Ministry deployed more heavily-armed police and undercover agents. Checkpoints were set up outside all provinces and cars were being prevented … Read more »»».

No withdrawal of security forces from Jammu and Kashmir

JAMMU – Despite strong pleas by the political groups in Jammu and Kashmir, there is little likelihood of the thinning of security forces in the state, government sources said.

The highly-placed sources told IANS that the state cannot risk withdrawing troops at this stage when the chances of militancy reviving are beaming on the radar. … Original article on : No withdrawal of security forces from Jammu and Kashmir.

Three Maoists arrested in Bengal

KOLKATA – Three Maoists were arrested from West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Sunday, police said.

“We arrested the three today (Sunday) from Lakxmanpur area of the district,” said Manoj Verma, superintendent of police, West Midnapore.
Acting on a tip-off, the security forces raided the village and arrested Mangal Mahato, Gopal Mahato and Jagadish Mahato.
Maoists … Original article on : Three Maoists arrested in Bengal.

Cheer to anger – Mood changes over ULFA chairman’s release

GUWAHATI – It’s no longer ‘ULFA zindabad’ slogans renting the air in Assam’s countryside, but pure expression of revulsion and anger against the euphoria and jubilation after the release on bail of Arabinda Rajkhowa, chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).

Beginning Saturday until late Sunday after Rajkhowa was released on bail …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kristi Cornwell’s Body Found

NORTH GEORGIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Kristi Cornwell, a probation officer disappeared mysteriously in August 2009. Her boyfriend said that she was on cell phone with him when he overheard some struggle after she told him that she feels a car is following her. After a year of search, her brother Richard Cornwell found her remains … Original article on : Kristi Cornwell’s Body Found.

Maddelacheruvu Suri Killed

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Maddelacheruvu Suri, or Gangula Suryanarayana Reddy was killed on Monday evening, while he was traveling in his car. It is speculated, that it is his ‘close associate’, Bhanu Kiran, who is the prime suspect in this murder. Maddelacheruvu Suri, was the main assasinator of Paritala Ravi, the Telugu Desam Party MLA. … Read more »»».

Pioneers of India’s n-energy programme to help US

TORONTO – Canada’s CANDU reactors – famous in India for pioneering its nuclear energy programme in 1963 – are now likely to help the US meet its demand for a crucial compound needed in making bomb-detection devices.

The compound helium-3, which is used in scanners to detect nuclear bombs, is in short supply globally as …. Read the original article  : here.

Maoist killed in Bengal gunfight

KOLKATA – A Maoist was killed and another injured Tuesday in a gun battle with security forces in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said.

Acting on intelligence inputs that a group of armed rebels had taken shelter at Baxibandh forest near Lalgarh, the security personnel conducted a raid early Tuesday.
“The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Orissa rights panel seeks report on shoot-out deaths

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa state human rights panel Monday sought a report from the police chief of Bargarh district on the deaths of two people in alleged staged shoot-out last week.

State Human Rights Commission chairman Justice R.K. Patra said the commission has taken, on its own, cognisance of media reports on the matter and …. Read the original article  : here.

Tribals should unite to fight Maoism: BJP MP

RAIPUR – Tribal people should put up a united face to fight rising Maoist militancy in Chhattisgarh, Bharatiya Janata Party Rajya Saba MP and tribal leader Nand Kumar Sai said Monday.

“The tribal community in Chhattisgarh mainly in mineral-rich Bastar is divided into various sections. If they get united and put up a united face … Read more >>.

My brother too was killed by separatists, says Bhat

SRINAGAR – A day after he asserted that militants and not security forces killed separatist leaders Mirwaiz Muhammad Farooq and Abdul Gani Lone, Hurriyat leader Abdul Gani Bhat said Monday that his own brother was assassinated by militants.

Bhat, a senior separatist leader and former chairman of the moderate Hurriyat group, blamed separatists for the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : My brother too was killed by separatists, says Bhat.

Nepali arrested for ISI links

LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh Police’s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a Nepali national for his alleged links with Pakistan’s spy agency –Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), officials said Monday.

Wasim alias Khabbu was nabbed Sunday from Barabanki town, 35 km from Lucknow, said a press statement issued here.
Wasim, actively involved in anti-national activities, used to … Read more »»».

Don’t feel safe in Chhattisgarh any more: Illina Sen

NEW DELHI – A day before her husbands birthday, the wife of jailed rights activist Binayak Sen Monday pledged to fight for his freedom but said she was worried over her and daughters’ safety in Chhattisgarh.

Addressing a crowded press conference here, Illina Sen said: I have been in complete shock. I have been sitting …. Source  : Don’t feel safe in Chhattisgarh any more: Illina Sen.

Samjhauta blasts: Hindu group leader’s custody extended

PANCHKULA – A special court here Monday extended, by 10 days, the police custody of Hindu group leader Swami Aseemanand in connection with the 2007 Samjhauta Express train blasts in Haryana that killed 68 people.

Aseemanand was brought before the National Investigation Agency (NIA) court amidst tight security cover Monday afternoon. The proceedings were … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Samjhauta blasts: Hindu group leader’s custody extended.

Hurriyat leader’s statement proves our point: police

JAMMU – Hurriyat leader Abdul Ghani Bhat’s admission that militants and not Indian security forces were to blame for the killing of top separatist leaders vindicates the police stand, the Jammu and Kashmir police chief said Monday.

“Bhat has said what we have been saying all along,” Director General of Police Kuldeep Khoda told the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hurriyat leader’s statement proves our point: police.

Amravati MMS Gets Ankit Gupta Arrested

AMRAVATI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Yet another technology hazard struck the small town of Amravati of the Vidharva region. The police discovered more than 15 raunchy clippings of several girls, who belong to the small towns of Amravati, Nagpur and Wardha region of Maharashtra. These MMS were recovered from the personal computer of the main suspect, … Read more : Amravati MMS Gets Ankit Gupta Arrested.

EU condemns Taseer killing

BRUSSELS – The European Union’s foreign policy chief Tuesday condemned the “brutal” assassination of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer and called on Pakistan to catch his killers.

Taseer was gunned down by a bodyguard Tuesday at a market in Islamabad.
EU High Representative Catherine Ashton “strongly condemns the brutal murder of Salman Taseer, governor of …. Original source  : EU condemns Taseer killing.

UN condemns Taseer’s killing

NEW YORK – UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Tuesday condemned the assassination of Pakistan’s Punjab Governor Salman Taseer, who was gunned down by a bodyguard in Islamabad.

Ban called Taseer a “prominent leader whose death is a loss for Pakistan”.
“The secretary general extends his condolences to the family of Mr. Taseer and to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN condemns Taseer’s killing.

Two Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh gun battle

RAIPUR – Two Maoist guerrillas were killed late Tuesday in a gunfight with police in a forested stretch in Chhattisgarh’s insurgency-riddled Bastar region, a senior official said.

The gunfight took place in Erka forested area in Narayanpur district, some 300 km south of capital Raipur.
“The gunfight began when a police contingent surrounded a forested …. Read the original article  : here.

Death toll from Egyptian church attack rises to 23

CAIRO – Two more people died of injuries sustained from a New Year’s Eve attack outside a church in Egypt, pushing the death toll to 23, official media reported Tuesday.

The attack, which the government believes was carried out by a suicide bomber, targeted Christians outside the Coptic Church of the Saints in the northern [..] Read the original article: here.

Police officer, bodyguard wounded in Srinagar attack

SRINAGAR – Separatist guerrillas shot at and wounded a police officer and his bodyguard here Tuesday evening.

A senior police officer said separatist guerrillas fired at a private vehicle in the Batmallo locality, injuring the area station house officer (SHO) Nazir Ahmad and his bodyguard who were travelling in it.
“Ahmad received a bullet injury … Read more >>>.

We support Mamata, she should quit cabinet: Maoists

KOLKATA – Expressing support to the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress for defeating the Marxists in West Bengal, the Maoists have urged the railway minister to resign from the cabinet against price rise and “Operation Green Hunt”.

In a statement, Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) leader Bikram cited the outfit’s “old links” with Banerjee and Trinamool, …. Source article  : We support Mamata, she should quit cabinet: Maoists.

Punjab governor, critic of Islamist militancy, killed by guard (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – Punjab Governor Salman Taseer, a vocal critic of Islamist militancy in Pakistan and a confidant of President Asif Ali Zardari, was shot dead in a posh area here by one of his guards who said he killed him for opposing blasphemy laws.

Guard Mumtaz Quadri, who belonged to an elite security agency, gave … Read : Punjab governor, critic of Islamist militancy, killed by guard (Second Lead).

Three-day mourning in Pakistan for Punjab governor

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Tuesday announced three days of state mourning for Punjab province Governor Salman Taseer, who was killed in an attack in Islamabad.

Taseer was shot dead by a guard, Mumtaz Qadri, who was member of the governor’s special security squad. He fired nine bullets from close range as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Three-day mourning in Pakistan for Punjab governor.

50 kg IED recovered in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Averting a major tragedy, police recovered a 50 kg improvised explosive device (IED) during anti-Maoist operations in Jharkhand’s Latehar district Tuesday.

The IED bomb, planted beneath the road, was found near Hotwag village situated on the Ranchi-Daltonganj national highway during a search after a gunfight with Maoists in the area. A 500 …. Original source  : 50 kg IED recovered in Jharkhand.

Governor of Pakistan’s Punjab state killed in attack

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan president’s close aide and governor of the country’s largest province Punjab was killed Tuesday when a man opened fire at him in Islamabad, a government official said.

Salman Taseer died of his injuries in hospital, his public relations officer Ishtiaq Amin said.
Some media reports cited witnesses as saying that a …. Original article  : Governor of Pakistan’s Punjab state killed in attack.

Governor of Pakistan’s Punjab killed in attack

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistani president’s close aide and governor of the country’s largest province Punjab was killed Tuesday when a man opened fire at him in Islamabad, state media reported.

Salman Taseer succumbed to his injuries in hospital, Pakistan Television quoted officials as saying.
[..] Read the original article: here.

Land mine planted by Maoists detected in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A land mine, packed with 100 kg explosives, planted by the Maoists under a small bridge was detected by police Tuesday in Orissa’s mineral-rich Jajpur district, official said.

The land mine was detected about 800 metres from the site where five Maoists were killed in a fierce gun battle with police Sunday, Superintendent …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Land mine planted by Maoists detected in Orissa.

Yasin Malik wants judicial probe into valley unrest deaths

SRINAGAR – Muhammad Yasin Malik, chairman of the separatist Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), Tuesday said he will seek judicial probe into all the 110 deaths during the 2010 summer unrest in the Kashmir Valley.

Speaking at a seminar, Malik said he will file a public interest litigation in the state high court, seeking … Read : Yasin Malik wants judicial probe into valley unrest deaths.

Ashley Blumenshine Arrested

PLAINFIELD (GaeaTimes.com)- Ashley Blumenshine, 27, Plainfield North High School teacher has been accused of having sex with a 16 year old student. She was arrested and charged with criminal sexual abuse after she was found having sex with in a car in the parking lot on Tuesday. The law enforcement officials reported that she … Read more >>>.

Governor Taseer’s assassin produced before terrorism court

ISLAMABAD – Mumtaz Qadri, the assassin of Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was Thursday presented before Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) under tight security in nearby Rawalpindi.

A magistrate Wednesday had remanded Qadri to one-day police custody with the instruction to produce him in an anti-terrorism court the next day.
He was presented before the …. Source article  : Governor Taseer’s assassin produced before terrorism court.

Chandler Mall Shooting Resulted Out Of Confusion

CHANDLER (GaeaTimes.com)- Shoppers present at a local mall in suburban Phoenix had a harrowing experience due to the crime operation that took place on Wednesday. Chandler police who were looking for a notorious fugitive had mistaken another man for him as a result of which it was all hell broke loose at the spot. The …. Source article  : Chandler Mall Shooting Resulted Out Of Confusion.

Robert Butler Jr. Dead After Millard South High School Shooting

OMAHA (GaeaTimes.com)- Robert Butler Jr., a 17 year old student shot two officials at Millard South High School in Omaha on Wednesday. The student was the son of a police detective Omaha Police Det. Robert Butler and he used to study in the same school. Omaha police chief Alex Hayes said that …. Original source  : Robert Butler Jr. Dead After Millard South High School Shooting.

Bangladesh PM gets death threat from militants

CHITTAGONG – Islamist militants have threatened to kill Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina if their associates are not freed from prison within a month.

In a letter to a jailor, they also threatened to bomb the jail in Chittagong where their 27 associates, including the chief of the banned Jama’atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) are lodged.
… Read more : Bangladesh PM gets death threat from militants.

Attempted hijack of Turkish plane thwarted

OSLO – A passenger onboard a Turkish Airlines flight from Norway to Turkey threatened Wednesday to blow up the plane if it did not return to Oslo, Norwegian media reported.

The plane, which carried 59 passengers, landed without incident at Istanbul’s Ataturk airport. Police stormed onto the plane and arrested the alleged hijacker, Norwegian broadcaster … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attempted hijack of Turkish plane thwarted.

Geelani plans ‘peaceful movement’ for troop withdrawal

SRINAGAR – Hardline Kashmiri separatist leader and chairman of the breakaway Hurriyat group Syed Ali Geelani said Wednesday his group will now work for troops withdrawal through “an extremely peaceful movement”.

Alleging that the use of “excessive force” by the government was meant to push the Kashmiri people into taking up arms again, Geelani said … Read more >>>.

Police complaint filed in Taseer killing case

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan police registered a complaint Wednesday in connection with the killing of Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, a media report said.

According to Geo News, the complaint was registered in Kohsar police station with Taseer’s son Shehryar Taseer as the complainant.
Taseer, a vocal critic of Islamist militancy in Pakistan, was shot dead … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Police complaint filed in Taseer killing case.

Three civilians die in Pakistan blast

ISLAMABAD – At least three civilians were killed Wednesday evening when a remote-controlled bomb exploded in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal region, Xinhua reported.

The blast occurred in South Waziristan. All the killed and injured were civilians.
… Read more : Three civilians die in Pakistan blast.

Morocco detains 27 Al Qaeda suspects

RABAT – Moroccan security forces have dismantled a 27-member Al Qaeda terrorist cell in the disputed territory of Western Sahara, government sources said Wednesday.

The sources confirmed the number of detainees as 27 and not 37, as had initially been reported.
The cell included a member of the North African branch of Al Qaeda, who … Original source on Gaea Times at : Morocco detains 27 Al Qaeda suspects.

Indian militants still trained in Bangladesh: Tripura CM

AGARTALA – Despite a crackdown against Indian militants, separatist outfits of the northeast continue to go to Bangladesh for training and come back to carry out extremist and violent activities, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar said here Wednesday.

“Taking advantage of the hilly terrain, thick forests and unfenced border, the Bangladesh-trained northeast militants cross into …. Read the original article  : Indian militants still trained in Bangladesh: Tripura CM.

Afghan security forces launch offensive against Taliban

KABUL – The Afghan defence ministry said Wednesday its forces have begun a military offensive alongside international troops against the Taliban insurgency.

“Operation Omid kicked off in 2011 and is going to be conducted mostly in the violent southern and eastern provinces of Afghanistan,” said General Zahir Azimi, the defence ministry spokesman.
The Afghan National …. Read the original article  : here.

Indian militants get trained in Bangladesh: Manik Sarkar

AGARTALA – Despite a crackdown against Indian militants in Bangladesh, separatist outfits of the northeast region go to the neighbouring country for training and come back to carry violent activities, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar said here Wednesday.

“Taking advantage of the hilly terrain, thick forests and unfenced border, the Bangladesh-trained northeast militants cross into … Original article on : Indian militants get trained in Bangladesh: Manik Sarkar.

New terror alert hits trains, airports in London

LONDON – A fresh terror alert has been issued in London amid fears of a Mumbai-style attack on airports and transport system, a media report said Friday.

Thursday’s alert meant that an attack was ‘highly likely’, the Daily Mail reported.
Transport police were ordered to cancel their leave so extra officers could be deployed across …. Original source  : New terror alert hits trains, airports in London.

Swami Nithyananda: Soon On Celluloid!

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- There are several instances when films on real life instances have been made by Bollywood directors, the latest example being the Rani Mukherjee-Vidya Balan starrer ‘No One Killed Jessica’, made on the murder of Jessica Lall. However, in a bizzare twist a film is going to be made on the scandalous …. Source article  : Swami Nithyananda: Soon On Celluloid!.

Swami Nithyananda: Was He Blackmailed?

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The tainted self styled godman Swami Nithyananda is back in news again! Almost a year back the spiritual leader got mired in a sex scam involving a South India actress. Amidst controversy rocking the state and allegations and counter allegations in his close circle over the matter he was arrested in … Read more »»».

Explosions hit two government buildings in US

WASHINGTON – Two explosions were reported Thursday at different buildings operated by the Maryland state government, and some injuries were possible, a local radio station reported.

The bombs were apparently contained in packages. A reporter from the Capital Newspaper in the state capital Annapolis told CNN that it was possible a mailroom worker had been … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Explosions hit two government buildings in US.

Bar on night train journeys in Maoist areas extended

KOLKATA – The restrictions on movement of passenger trains during night in Maoist-affected areas of West Bengal, Orissa and Jharkhand will continue till Jan 13, 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 … Read more : Bar on night train journeys in Maoist areas extended.

Tight security in Egypt ahead of Coptic masses

CAIRO – The Egyptian government ordered extra security and blocked cars from parking near churches as Coptic Christians prepared Thursday to attend Christmas Eve masses, less than a week after a deadly bombing targeted one of their churches in Alexandria.

The country has been on high alert ever since a suspected suicide bomber detonated a … Read : Tight security in Egypt ahead of Coptic masses.

Maoist kill village headman in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas Thursday abducted and killed a village headman in Jharkhand’s Khuti district, accusing him of being a police informer, police said.

According to police, Karam Singh Munda was abducted by the Maoists from Arki market of Khuti, around 65 km from Ranchi. He was first beaten up and later shot dead.
Maoists …. Original source  : Maoist kill village headman in Jharkhand.

Egypt’s Copts prepare for Christmas mass Thursday

CAIRO – Coptic churches across Egypt were preparing to hold Christmas masses Thursday night, less than a week after a bombing outside a church in the city of Alexandria killed 23 people.

Groups of people on the internet, especially on the popular Facebook networking website, called on Muslims to gather outside churches during mass in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tamil rebels operating ships abroad: Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – Defeated Tamil separatist rebels of Sri Lanka were running illegal operations overseas, using ships that escaped the conflict, a senior cabinet minister said Thursday.

Rebels associated with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) still had at least eight vessels and were using them for illegal activities, including human trafficking, said Dinesh Gunawardena, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tamil rebels operating ships abroad: Sri Lanka.

Separate Telangana could see more Maoist activity: Srikrishna

HYDERABAD – The Srikrishna Committee fears spurt in Maoist activity in a separate Telangana state with or without Hyderabad as its capital.

“It also has to be borne in mind that Telangana with or without Hyderabad is likely to experience a spurt in Maoist activity,” says the report in its last chapter ‘The way forward’.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Separate Telangana could see more Maoist activity: Srikrishna.

Five women Maoists surrender in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Five women Maoists, including a local deputy commander, surrendered Thursday in Orissa’s Keonjhar district, police said. All the rebels were below 17 years of age.

The guerrillas laid down their arms before the police in Keonjhar town, the district head quarters of mineral rich Keonjhar district, some 230 kms from here, Superintendent …. Original source  : Five women Maoists surrender in Orissa.

ULFA chairman holds first round of peace talks

GUWAHATI – The first round of peace talks between Arabinda Rajkhowa, chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), and the central government’s interlocutor P.C. Haldar was held Thursday, with the rebels agreeing to open unconditional negotiations soon.

It was a very positive beginning. The ULFA chairman expressed the group’s willingness for unconditional …. Read the original article  : ULFA chairman holds first round of peace talks.

San Jose Police Arrests Two Bank Robbers

SAN JOSE (GaeaTimes.com)- Reports from some of the most reliable sources say that a bank teller is facing hard times in the custody of the police for permitting a bank robbery in his branch in San Jose. Jose Luna, 21, along with his assistant, Steven Davis are in police custody on charges of conspiracy …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : San Jose Police Arrests Two Bank Robbers.

Hindutva ‘terror groups’ threat to India: CPI-M

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday urged the government to pursue the investigation into bomb blasts blamed on “Hindutva terror groups”, calling them a threat to India.

“The reported statements by Aseemananda, co-accused in a series of bomb blasts by Hindutva terrorist groups, shows that it is not just a [..] Read the original article: here.

Suspicious envelope ignites in US post office

WASHINGTON – An envelope circulating through the US postal system ignited Friday in a Washington post office, CNN reported.

A worker at the post office detected smoke while sorting mail and tossed the suspicious envelope into a bin as it caught fire, authorities said. No one was hurt, authorities said.
The incident prompted concerns following …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suspicious envelope ignites in US post office.

Air India bomber gets nine more years in jail

TORONTO – Inderjit Singh Reyat, the only convicted Air India bomber, was Friday sentenced to nine more years for lying under oath at the Air India Kanishka bombing trial. The verdict was pronounced by a court in Vancouver.

Air India Kanishka flight 182 from Montreal to Delhi was blown off mid-air near Ireland June 23, …. Original source  : Air India bomber gets nine more years in jail.

Ban on night trains lifted – partly

KOLKATA – Authorities Friday decided to resume train traffic at night in Chakradharpur-Rourkela section but said the ban will remain in the Kharagpur-Tata and Kharagpur-Adra areas due to Maoist threats.

The South Eastern Railway had restricted the movement of trains between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. in Kharagpur-Adra, Kharagpur-Tata and Chakradharpur-Rourkela sections.
This followed …. Read the original article  : Ban on night trains lifted — partly.

Istanbul mosque bomb threat turns out to be a hoax

ISTANBUL – A historic 16th century mosque in Istanbul received a bomb threat Friday that later turned out to be a hoax call, police said.

The Yeni Camii or New Mosque, located in Eminonu district, is one of the best known sights of Istanbul.
The bomb threat resulted in police closing all roads …. Original source  : Istanbul mosque bomb threat turns out to be a hoax.

Blast in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

ISLAMABAD – At least six people, including two police officers, were injured in a blast Friday evening at a market place in Pakistan’s northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a media report said.

The blast took place at about 6.30 p.m. at the Umarzai Market in Charsadda, a city north of provincial capital Peshawar, Xinhua reported citing …. Source article  : Blast in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Israeli troops kill man mistaken for Hamas leader

LONDON – Israel’s military has expressed “regret” for having shot dead an innocent 67-year-old man in his bed, after he was mistaken for a Hamas leader, Sky News reported Friday.

Omar Kawasme was killed during a raid in the West Bank city of Hebron.
According to eyewitnesses, the soldiers were looking for Kawasme’s neighbour – …. Read the original article  : Israeli troops kill man mistaken for Hamas leader.

Taliban bomb expert captured by NATO

KABUL – Afghan and NATO coalition forces have captured a Taliban leader, reported to be an expert in using improvised explosive devices, in southern Afghanistan, a NATO statement said Friday.

The Taliban leader, operating in Qalat district and responsible for targeting many coalition-force vehicles in the district, was arrested during a security operation in Zabul … Original source on Gaea Times at : Taliban bomb expert captured by NATO.

Aseemanand confesses to his involvement in Samjhauta, Ajmer blasts

NEW DELHI – Arrested Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Swami Aseemanand has confessed before a magistrate that he along with other Hindu activists was involved in the Malegaon, Samjhauta Express, Ajmer and Mecca Masjid bombings.

Aseemanand’s confession has unravelled the “inner workings of the Hindutva terror network” before the magistrate, according to the weekly … Read more : Aseemanand confesses to his involvement in Samjhauta, Ajmer blasts.

Maryland Staged Terror: Explosion Not By Terrorist Groups

MARYLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Two explosives blasted in Department of Transportation headquarters, Hanover and Government building in Annapolis. The first package was opened at about 12:30 p.m in Annapolis, in the Jeffrey Building on Francis Street that led to a blast in the location. About 15 minutes later the blast in Hanover followed. Authorities say that this … Read : Maryland Staged Terror: Explosion Not By Terrorist Groups.

17 killed in Afghan suicide attack

KABUL – At least 17 people were killed and 23 injured Friday in a suicide bombing targeting a border police commander in southern Afghanistan, an official said.

The commander was among those killed in the attack in Kandahar province, said Zulmai Ayobi, the provincial governor’s spokesman.
The bombing took place in the Spin Boldak …. Original article  : 17 killed in Afghan suicide attack.

Arizona Shooting Condemned By Politicians

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- Arizona shooting on Saturday morning left 6 people dead and 13 other severely wounded and it included Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Law enforcement officials are of the opinion that Gabrielle Giffords was the main target of the whole rampage. The suspect of the shooting was arrested immediately after the incident and the law …. Source article  : Arizona Shooting Condemned By Politicians.

US court postpones Rana’s trial in Mumbai attack

TORONTO – A US court has put off by three months, at the request of the defence, the trial of Pakistani Canadian Tahawwur Hussain Rana, charged with helping David Headley plot the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

The trial in a Chicago court, which was scheduled to start Feb 14, will now begin May 16 at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US court postpones Rana’s trial in Mumbai attack.

Christina Taylor Green Dies At 9

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- The jovial school girl from Tucson Christina Taylor Green who was one of the ‘Faces of Hope’ child succumbed to bullet injuries after being shot by a gunman at a regional political event. 5 other persons were also killed at the meeting convened by noted U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Christina Taylor Green Dies At 9.

Jared Lee Loughner Mentally Unsound?

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- People had gathered on Saturday morning to attend an event in honor of U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford. However, nobody had the slightest clue that the gathering would turn into some kind of a worst nightmares. At 10 in the morning, when the crowd had gathered, an unidentified man appeared and opened fire …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jared Lee Loughner Mentally Unsound?.

Three abducted Chhattisgarh tribals still traceless

RAIPUR – The Chhattisgarh Police early Sunday conducted raids in Maoist hideouts in restive Bastar region to trace three tribal civilians who were abducted by the rebels Jan 2.

Relatives of the abducted tribals, Kanval Singh, Dhan Singh and Lalji Ram, residents of Upartonka village in Kanker district, informed police that Maoists came to the …. Original source  : Three abducted Chhattisgarh tribals still traceless.

Suspected Maoists kill one in Bengal

KOLKATA – A group of suspected Maoists gunned down a villager in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said Sunday.

“Jamil Soren of Garra village near Lalgarh was dragged out of his house Saturday night and shot dead. Maoists are suspected to be behind the crime. But no Maoist posters were recovered from the spot, … Read more »».

Clarence Dupnik Releases Victims’ Names

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- Pima County Sheriff, Clarence Dupnik released the names of the victims who were shot dead in the mass shooting that occurred on Saturday morning in Tuscon. The law officials said that a 22-year old suspect was taken into police custody. The Sheriff said that Congresswoman, Gabrielle Giffords was shot in the head … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clarence Dupnik Releases Victims’ Names.

Gabrielle Giffords Wounded In Arizona Shooting

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- Like a bolt from the blue, open fire at a busy supermarket in Arizona on Saturday left six people dead and Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords severely wounded. Sheriff Clarence Dupnik said that the Congresswoman was the prime target of the shooting and the gunman shot her in the head. However, the doctors … Read : Gabrielle Giffords Wounded In Arizona Shooting.

Nine Maoists killed in Orissa gunfight

BHUBANESWAR – Nine Maoists were killed in a gunfight between security forces and the guerrillas in Orissa’s Rayagada district early Sunday, police said.

The gun battle took place in a forested area near Kalyansinghpur in Rayagada.
“We have recovered nine bodies of Maoists and also seized huge quantity of arms and ammunition from them. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nine Maoists killed in Orissa gunfight.

US trial of Pakistani-Canadian in Mumbai attacks postponed

TORONTO – The US trial of Pakistani-born Canadian citizen Tahawwur Hussain Rana, who is charged with helping David Headley in masterminding the Mumbai terror plot, has been postponed till May at his request.

The trial, which was scheduled to start Feb 14, will now begin May 16 at the request of Rana’s lawyer.
Rana, 49, … Read more »»».

WikiLeaks: Sri Lanka imported radio equipment for LTTE

Colombo, Jan 8, The Sri Lankan government had imported radio equipment for the Tamil Tiger rebels in 2002 as it tried to work out a peace deal in collaboration with the Norwegian facilitators, according to a cable sent by the US mission in Colombo revealed by WikiLeaks.

The move “left a bad taste in everyone’s … Read : WikiLeaks: Sri Lanka imported radio equipment for LTTE.

Air India bomber gets nine more years for perjury

TORONTO – Inderjit Singh Reyat, the only convicted bomber of an Air India plane in 1985, was Friday sentenced by a court in Vancouver to nine more years for lying under oath at the trial. The sentence is the longest for perjury in Canadian legal history.

Air India Kanishka flight 182 from Montreal to Delhi … Read more : Air India bomber gets nine more years for perjury.

Trinamool cooperated with Maoists in Nandigram: Party MP

KOLKATA – Embarrassing his party yet again, singer-turned-Trinamool Congress MP Kabir Suman has claimed in his recent book that the Trinamool and Maoists were hand in glove during the Nandigram land agitation in 2007.

In his just released book “Nishaner Naam Tapasi Malik” (Tapasi Malik – An Emblem), Suman writes that Trinamool Congress chief Mamata … Original source on Gaea Times at : Trinamool cooperated with Maoists in Nandigram: Party MP.