Navtej Sarna
Counsellor (Press & Information)
(202) 939-7042

Dubai deports suspects in the attack outside the American Centre in Kolkota

February 9, 2002
New Delhi

Two Indian nationals, AFTAB ANSARI @ FARHAN ALI, the prime suspect in the attack outside the American Centre in Kolkata on January 22, 2002, and his accomplice RAJU SHARMA @ RAJENDER KUMAR ANADKOT were arrested in Delhi today, after their deportation from Dubai. AFTAB ANSARI is wanted for complicity in other criminal acts committed at the behest of terrorist organizations based in Pakistan.

Their arrest has been made possible due to the close cooperation received from the Dubai authorities in tracing and apprehending them. At the time of apprehension AFTAB ANSARI was in possession of Pakistani travel documents.

The Government of India greatly appreciates cooperation and support from the Dubai authorities as well as the UAE government. Shri Jaswant Singh, External Affairs Minister has thanked H.H. General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Makhtoom, Crown Prince of Dubai and Minister of Defence of UAE for the exceptional gesture in keeping with the traditional friendship between the two countries and their commitment, in line with UNSC Resolution 1373, to fight international terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The suspects are now in CBI custody for further investigation.