Rana sought Nishan-e-Haider for LeT terrorists killed in 26/11 siege: US Justice Department
PTC News Desk: Mumbai attacks accused Tahawwur Rana sought Pakistan's highest gallantry award Nishan-e-Haider for all the nine terrorists killed in 26/11 siege. The revelations came to the fore after Rana's calls with his childhood friend and co-conspirator David Coleman Headley were intercepted by US.
In an official statement on Rana's extradition to India, the US Department of Justice disclosed fresh details about the former Pakistan army officer and his links to David Headley.
"In an intercepted conversation with Headley, Rana allegedly commended the nine LeT terrorists who were killed, saying 'they should be given Nishan-e-Haider'," the statement said. Nishan-e-Haider is Pakistan's highest gallantry award, which is reserved for fallen soldiers.
Out of all the 10 terrorist, nine were killed and only Ajmal Kasab was captured alive who was later hanged till death in 2012.
"Among other things, Rana allegedly agreed to open a Mumbai branch of his immigration business and appoint Headley as the manager of the office, despite Headley’s having no immigration experience," the US statement said.
According to the US Justice department, Headley received training from Lashkar and was in "direct communication" with the terror outfit about plans to attack Mumbai.
- With inputs from agencies
