November 28, 2024: In a major breakthrough, Indian authorities have successfully extradited Salman Rehman Khan, a key operative linked to the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), from Rwanda. Khan, who is accused of financing and supplying arms to militant modules in Bengaluru, was apprehended as part of a covert operation by India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in collaboration with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Interpol's National Central Bureau in Kigali.

Khan faces multiple charges, including membership in a terrorist organization, criminal conspiracy, and providing material support to LeT. The NIA registered a case against him in 2023 under the Arms Act, Explosive Substances Act, and various anti-terrorism provisions. He is alleged to have played a pivotal role in facilitating the supply of weapons, ammunition, and explosives for terrorist operations in Bengaluru.

The case dates back to a significant arms seizure in Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, where, in a raid last year, authorities recovered seven pistols, four hand grenades, one magazine, 45 live rounds, and several walkie-talkies. The discovery of these weapons raised alarms about a larger network operating in the city, with links to international terror organizations.

Investigations revealed that Khan was a central figure in a wider operation aimed at spreading radical ideology and supporting LeT activities in southern India. Authorities believe he was responsible for transporting arms, ammunition, and funds to Bengaluru-based terrorist cells that were planning attacks in the region.

The NIA took over the investigation in October 2023, following the identification of Khan as a key suspect in the illicit arms trade. The operation culminated in his arrest in Rwanda, a crucial step in dismantling the terror network that had been operating under the radar for some time.

The successful extradition underscores the growing cooperation between India and international law enforcement agencies, as well as India's commitment to combatting terrorism and ensuring that individuals responsible for funding and facilitating terror activities are brought to justice.