26/11 Accused Tahawwur Rana Called Himself Pakistan Army’s ‘Trusted Agent’: NIA Custody Details

Tahawwur Rana Admits to Being ‘Trusted Agent’ of Pakistan Army, Confirms Presence During 26/11 Attacks.

Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has reportedly told investigators that he was a “trusted agent” of the Pakistan Army and was present in Mumbai during the 2008 assault that left 166 people dead. The revelations came during his interrogation by the Mumbai Police Crime Branch while he was in the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Rana, who was extradited from the United States on April 10 after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected his plea against extradition, is now facing trial for his alleged role in the attacks orchestrated by Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Explosive Confession in Custody
According to officials familiar with the interrogation, Rana claimed:

He had worked as an intelligence asset for the Pakistan Army, including a stint in Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War.

Lashkar-e-Taiba was initially established not only as a militant outfit but as an espionage network supported by the Pakistani military establishment.

David Headley, his associate and convicted LeT operative, conducted several terror training sessions and carried out surveillance of targets in Mumbai on behalf of the LeT.

He personally conducted reconnaissance of locations in Mumbai prior to the attack and confirmed his presence near the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel at the time of the assault.

Background of the Case
The 2008 attacks involved a series of coordinated shootings and bombings carried out by 10 LeT operatives who arrived in Mumbai by sea. The attacks targeted the Taj Hotel, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Nariman House, and other landmarks.

David Headley, who is currently serving a 35-year sentence in the United States, was responsible for scouting targets and planning the operation. The NIA alleges that Rana helped Headley obtain an Indian visa using a fake identity and provided logistical support for his reconnaissance missions.

Legal Proceedings Continue
Rana’s extradition marks a significant step in India’s long-standing efforts to bring all 26/11 conspirators to justice. Last month, a Delhi court extended his judicial custody till July 9. He appeared via video conferencing and was granted permission to make a single phone call to his family.

According to sources, the NIA will use Rana’s latest statements to strengthen its case against him and possibly reopen other leads connected to the 26/11 conspiracy.