Indian Mujahideen module smashed in Rajasthan, Pakistan terrorist among four arrested

NEW DELHI: Top Indian Mujahideen terrorist Zia Ur Rehman alias Waqas, a Pakistani national wanted in connection with several bombings, and three associates have been arrested from Rajasthan by Delhi Police which claimed to have averted a "spectacular terror attack" during elections.

"Rehman, a dreaded terrorist, exported by Pakistan based ISI, is wanted in a series of bombings carried out all over India along with his absconding associates," Special Commissioner (Special Cell) S N Shrivastava told reporters here today, adding it was a "major catch".

He was arrested outside Ajmer Railway Station early yesterday morning when he alighted from a train which came from Bandra, Mumbai.

His other three associates identified as Mohammad Mahruf (21), Mohammad Waqar Azhar alias Haneef (21), both residents of Jaipur, and Shaquib Ansari alias Khalid (25) of Jodhpur were arrested at his instance in the wee hours today from their residences with the help of Rajasthan police.

A youth, whose identity police did not reveal, was picked up for questioning from Shaheen Bagh area from Jamia Nagar for questioning as he was in touch with the three arrested from Jaipur and Jodhpur.

"We have recovered huge amount of explosive materials, detonators, electronic circuits/timers from the residence of these three people from Jaipur and Jodhpur. With this, a spectacular terrorist strike has been averted," said Shrivastava.

Asked whether the terrorists had plans to target BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, Shirvastava said, "Present level of investigation doesn't point towards it."

On whether the terrorists were planning attack on any politician or rally during Lok Sabha elections, he said, "Any important event including elections can be targeted but we are at a very preliminary stage of investigation and I would not like to speculate as if now."

Cases have been registered under Explosive Substances Act at Jaipur and Jodhpur in connection with the recoveries made from the terrorists.

25-year-old Rehman has disclosed that the purpose of his visit to Ajmer was to coordinate and oversee the preparations being carried out by the three terrorists of the Rajasthan module for carrying out a spectacular terror strike, said Shrivastava.

An expert in IED and other explosives, Rehman was brought to Delhi and produced in a Special Court which remanded him in 10-day police custody. His detailed interrogation is under way, police said.