Lahore attack aimed at releasing Lakhvi: Pak investigation agency

Lahore, Mar.5 (ANI): Pakistan investigative agencies are of the view that militants are using Tuesday's attack on the Sri Lankan cricketers in Lahore to facilitate the release of Lashkar-e-Toiba commander Zakir-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

akhvi is currently detained at the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi and is facing trial for his alleged role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

According to sources, investigation agencies are saying that the attack was planned and carried out by a Lashkar operative.

Pakistan Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani's Advisor on Interior Affairs, Rehman Malik, had also said that the Lahore attackers wanted to hijack the bus carrying the visiting team.

On the day the attack on the Lankan team was carried out, Lakhvi and four other 26/11 suspects were to appear in front of an Anti-Terrorism Court in Rawalpindi.

The court extended the physical remand of all five for another14 days.

It has also been revealed that the security cover provided to the Lankan team was inadequate. Officials said that it was sheer luck the players were saved.

The LeT, however, has denied playing role in the Lahore attack.

"These allegations are a malicious attempt not only to malign the Lashkar, but also the ongoing freedom movement in Jammu and Kashmir," The News quoted a former LeT office-bearer, as saying. (ANI)