A Delhi court has extended the NIA (National Investigation Agency) custody of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, by 12 days. The order was passed on Monday, April 28, 2025, by Special NIA Judge Chander Jit Singh at the Patiala House Court, following a request from the NIA after Rana's initial 18-day remand period ended. Rana was presented before the court amidst tight security arrangements.
Tahawwur Rana, a close associate of David Coleman Headley (also known as Daood Gilani), a conspirator in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, faces several charges including conspiracy, murder, terrorism, and forgery. He was extradited to India after the US Supreme Court dismissed his appeal against the extradition on April 4, 2025.
The 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, which occurred on November 26, 2008, involved a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists who launched coordinated attacks on various locations in Mumbai, including a railway station, two luxury hotels, and a Jewish center. The terrorists had entered the city via the Arabian Sea. The attacks resulted in the tragic loss of 166 lives and caused widespread devastation.
During the previous remand hearing on April 11, the court had granted an 18-day police custody remand, ensuring adherence to legal protocols, including regular medical evaluations for Rana every 48 hours. The court had acknowledged the evidence presented, indicating a large-scale terror conspiracy spanning multiple cities and potentially involving international targets. Considering Rana's health concerns, the court ordered appropriate medical care during his custody.
The extension of Rana's NIA custody underscores the ongoing investigation into the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and the efforts to bring all those involved to justice.