In a significant operation showcasing India’s global counter-terrorism efforts, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) successfully extradited Salman Rehman Khan, a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)-linked terrorist, from Rwanda. Khan is accused of financing and supplying arms and ammunition to militant modules in Bengaluru, according to officials.
Khan’s extradition was part of a covert mission executed by the CBI’s Global Operations Centre, in collaboration with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Interpol’s National Central Bureau in Kigali. Officials described the operation as highly confidential and critical to addressing threats posed by transnational terrorism networks.
Interpol had issued a Red Notice against Khan on August 2, 2023, following the CBI’s request. Intelligence tracking led investigators to Rwanda, from where a joint team successfully brought him back to India for prosecution.
Accusations and Investigation Details
Khan faces charges under the Arms Act, the Explosive Substances Act, and anti-terrorism laws. He is alleged to have facilitated the transportation of arms, ammunition, and funds to Bengaluru-based terror cells linked to the Pakistan-based LeT.
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The case initially emerged after the Bengaluru City Police uncovered a cache of weapons during a raid at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison last year. Authorities seized seven pistols, four hand grenades, one magazine, 45 live rounds, and four walkie-talkies.
The discovery prompted an in-depth investigation, which revealed a broader conspiracy aimed at spreading radical ideology and enabling terrorist activities in the region. On October 25, 2023, the NIA officially took over the case, identifying Khan as a key operative in the supply chain.
Strengthening Global Anti-Terror Efforts
Khan’s extradition marks the third successful operation conducted by the CBI this month. Earlier in November, Barkat Ali Khan, wanted in a rioting and explosives case in Mumbai, was extradited from Saudi Arabia on November 14. Raihan Arabikkalalarikkal, accused of raping a minor in Kerala, was extradited from Saudi Arabia on November 10.
Since 2021, the CBI has facilitated the extradition of 100 fugitives, with 26 extraditions achieved in 2024 alone.
A Step Towards Justice
The arrest and extradition of Salman Rehman Khan are significant steps in India’s fight against terrorism. This mission underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing cross-border terrorism and ensuring justice for those who perpetrate crimes against the state.
