Alleged IM operative deported from UAE

Faizan Ahmad Sultan, named by the National Investigation Agency as a key Indian Mujahideen organiser, was deported by the UAE late on Friday, in what investigators describe as a key breakthrough in foiling the Islamist terror group’s recruitment and fundraising operations in West Asia.

Faizan was escorted to New Delhi by Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) officials and was arrested by the NIA soon after his arrival.

Police sources told

The Hindu that UAE authorities detained Faizan soon after he was located by RAW in February, based on leads developed through the interrogation of alleged Indian Mujahideen commander Mohammad Ahmad Zarar Siddibapa. Siddibapa, held while crossing the India-Nepal border last year, is now awaiting trial.

Faizan, investigators allege, played a key role in helping Indian Mujahideen fugitives flee India after a 2008 police operation targeting the group led to the arrest of several second-rung operatives, and the death of top commander Mohammad Atif Amin. In addition, he is alleged to have helped Mohammad Ismail, also known as “Gora Ismail,” route funds from Karachi-based Indian Mujahideen military commander Riyaz Ahmad Shahbandri to operatives in India.

In February, a Delhi District and Sessions Judge issued a warrant against Faizan, after the NIA told it he had been held in Dubai. The warrant, sources said, laid the ground for UAE authorities to initiate proceedings for Faizan’s removal from Sharjah.

Earlier, a special cell of the Delhi Police requested another court to issue a warrant against him in connection with the 2008 serial blasts in the capital. The court declined the request.

Diplomatic sources told The Hindu that the arrest was a sign of growing cooperation with West Asian states — once safe havens for Indian criminals. Saudi Arabia handed over alleged 26/11 perpetrator Zabiuddin Ansari, though he held a Pakistani passport. In 2009, Oman handed over Sarfaraz Nawaz, accused of involvement with the Indian Mujahideen.