Sajid Mir: 26/11 Mastermind’s Hidden Past and Controversial Arrest in Pakistan

Key Highlights:

Sajid Mir: 26/11 Mastermind’s Hidden Past and Controversial Arrest in Pakistan

Sajid Mir, a senior operative of the Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has been one of the most elusive and controversial terrorists of recent times. Known as the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which killed 166 people and injured over 300, Mir’s story is a complex tale of denial, deception, and diplomatic intrigue.

Despite his central role in orchestrating the Mumbai attacks, Pakistan denied his presence on its soil for years, even claiming that he was deceased. However, intense international pressure, especially from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), led Pakistan to arrest Mir in 2022. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison for terror financing.

The United States and India’s Pursuit

Mir’s involvement in the 26/11 attacks made him a top target for international counterterrorism agencies. In 2011, he was indicted in the United States on multiple charges, including conspiracy to injure the property of a foreign government, providing material support to terrorists, and killing a U.S. citizen.

The FBI listed Sajid Mir as one of its Most Wanted Terrorists, offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to his capture. However, despite being under Pakistan’s custody, Mir remained a figure of mystery, with limited public information about his status.

Poisoning Allegations and Diplomatic Controversy

In December 2023, reports emerged that Sajid Mir was poisoned while in a Pakistani prison, leading to his hospitalization. The circumstances of his poisoning remain unclear, sparking speculation about the security and transparency of his detention.

Mir’s case has also become a point of diplomatic contention. In 2023, India and the United States pushed for his designation as a global terrorist at the United Nations. However, this proposal was blocked by China, highlighting the geopolitical complexities surrounding his case.

What Lies Ahead

Sajid Mir’s case is far from over. As Pakistan remains under international pressure to ensure transparency in its handling of terror-related cases, the fate of Sajid Mir could have broader implications for global counterterrorism efforts.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

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