Mumbai terror trial in Chicago winding down

CHICAGO: The verdict in the trial of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, co-accused in the Mumbai terror attacks with David Coleman Headley, is likely to come as early as on June 8 as the Chicago businessman is unlikely to testify at his own trial.

Attorney Patrick Blegen said Tahawwur Rana's defence team was still making a final decision, but that it was unlikely Rana would take the stand.

The case proceeded quickly after Headley, a Pakistani-American, wrapped up his testimony after five days of questioning by Prosecution and Defence lawyers in the trial of his childhood friend and another 26/11 co-accused Rana in a Chicago court and the verdict is likely to come on June 8.

Prosecutors called seven witnesses today, including five FBI agents who verified email and phone communication between Rana, Headley, and "Major Iqbal," believed to be an ISI officer.

Rana was communicating through e-mails with Major Iqbal of ISI (low level officer), it was noted in court.

An email sent from a Chaudhery Khan, another name for Major Iqbal from chaudherykhan@yahoo.com in which he gave his mobile number for future contacts was shown in court today by prosecutor Sarah Streicker.

Another e-email from tahawwur@yahoo.com in which Rana booked Headley's flight on December 8, 2008, from New York to Chicago with a stop at Atlanta.

US District Court Judge Harry D Leinenweber said the case proceeded quickly partly because both the government and defence had no problems with the stipulation.

A stipulation is an agreement between opposing parties prior to a pending hearing or trial when both parties stipulate to certain facts and therefore do not argue those facts.