LeT Terrorist Extradited From Rwanda In Bengaluru Prisons Terror Conspiracy Case

Salman Rehman Khan, a terrorist associated with the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was extradited to India from Rwanda today by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He had been implicated in the Bengaluru Prisons Terror Conspiracy case, where investigations revealed his role in radicalising individuals and supplying explosives to terror operatives.

Khan was arrested in Kigali, Rwanda's capital, yesterday following a coordinated effort between the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Interpol, and the National Central Bureaus (NCBs). He was then transferred to India early on Thursday, where he was formally taken into NIA custody.

This marks the 17th instance since 2020 that the NIA has successfully facilitated the extradition or deportation of terror-related fugitives.

Salman Khan had been serving a sentence for a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) conviction at Bengaluru Central Prison between 2018 and 2022. It was during this period that he came into contact with T Naseer, a convicted terrorist serving a life sentence, who played a key role in radicalising Khan and establishing a terror network within the prison.

The NIA's investigation uncovered how Salman, once radicalised, actively participated in terror activities, assisting in the procurement and distribution of arms, ammunition, and explosives to terror operatives.

Naseer also devised plots to facilitate his escape during court appearances, with Salman playing a part in these plans. When the terror conspiracy was exposed, Salman fled India and evaded capture until his arrest in Rwanda.

The NIA registered the Bengaluru Prisons Terror Conspiracy case on October 25 last year, taking over from Bengaluru City Police. Salman, who had been declared a fugitive, was charged under the stringent UAPA, the Arms Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.

A Red Notice was issued by Interpol at the NIA's request on August 2 this year. Acting on the notice, authorities in Rwanda arrested Salman and alerted Indian agencies, leading to coordinated efforts by the NIA, the Rwandan NCB, and Interpol, culminating in his extradition.

In 2024 alone, 26 fugitives have been returned to India through coordinated efforts with Interpol, including Raihan Arabikkalalarikkal, wanted for crimes against minors, who was extradited from Saudi Arabia.