Aussie police charges Indian doc with terror links

Melbourne, July 14 (UNI) Indian doctor Mohamed Haneef, held by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) since the last 12 days, has been charged with alleged links to the foiled bombings in UK.

However, 27-year-old Haneef has not been charged with active participation in the failed car bomb attacks in the UK on June 29 and 30.

He has been charged with providing support to a terrorist group by allegedly ''recklessly'' giving his SIM card and could face a maximum penalty of 15-year imprisonment.

The specific allegation involved ''recklessness'' rather than intention, AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty told reporters in Canberra today.

''The allegation being that he was reckless about the support he provided, in particular to the provision of his SIM card for the use of the group,'' the AFP chief added.

He is the second person to be charged for the foiled bombings in UK. He had allegedly been involved with the conspirators who planned to ram cars loaded with explosives into the airports.

''He has been charged with providing support to a terrorist organisation contrary to Section 102.7(2) of the Criminal Code Act 1995,'' an AFP spokesperson said in a statement today as the Indian national was produced in a Brisbane court.

The incarcerated Indian doctor from Bangalore is related to the UK bombing suspects Kafeel and Sabeel Ahmed. The two men have been detained in UK over the plot which could have killed or maimed hundreds. Two car bombs primed to explode in London's bustling theatre and nightclub district were discovered early on June 29. The following day a jeep crashed into the terminal building at Glasgow airport in Scotland and burst into flames.

According to media reports, Saturday's AFP action has also reduced the chances of extradition of the terror suspect to Britain.

''He has been charged under our legislation. This charge can be dealt with in Australia,'' Haneef's lawyer Mr Peter Russo told reporters while being questioned about his extradition.

The chances of Haneef being either released or charged within 24-hours became apparent yesterday as the AFP withdrew an application to delay the questioning of Haneef for another three days.

He was questioned this morning for the final time by the Australian investigators.

UNI