Sunday (March 12) marks the 30th anniversary of the 1993 serial bomb blasts in Bombay (Mumbai city's official name before 1995), which ripped apart India's financial hub and resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the hands of the dreaded terror attacks.&nbsp;

As India looks back at that terrible day 30 years ago, some wounds remain unhealed. But Mumbaikars (the local people of Mumbai) have confronted the fear with courage. There were a total of 12 terrorist bomb blasts on March 12, 1993, that occurred in the city in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

The blasts took the lives of 257 people and injured&nbsp;thousands of others.&nbsp;

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It all started with an explosives-packed automobile which blew off in the basement of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building at around 1:30 in the afternoon on March 12. The explosions shocked the city's most crowded places and lasted for a little over two hours, from 1:30 pm to 3:40 pm.&nbsp;

There was panic and confusion everywhere. The injured were rushed to the hospitals which were overcrowded in the aftermath of dozens of blasts on that fateful day, which later came to be known as “Black Friday”. Many still continue to battle the horrors of that day and the dark memories still haunt them.&nbsp;

Dawood Ibrahim, one of India's most sought criminals was the mastermind behind the 1993 Mumbai blasts. He is known to have founded&nbsp;the criminal syndicate D-Company in Bombay in the 1970s. Famous actors have played the notorious gangster in several films and television shows that were inspired by him. Many Indian films detail the 1993 terror blasts and ensuing police inquiry.

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But Dawood Ibrahim and another gangster Tiger Memon, the 1993 explosion's masterminds, were able to elude the police and other enforcement agencies. Tiger Memon's real name is Ibrahim Mushtaq Abdul Razzaq Memon, but he is popularly known by his nickname.&nbsp;

Yakub Memon, the brother of Tiger Memon, was imprisoned in 1994. He was found guilty of conspiring, organising and funding training, and buying cars used for the bombings. He was convicted and awarded a death sentence in July 2007. After a gruelling 14 years of agony, the Supreme Court of India, in 2013, passed the final judgement on the case and upheld an earlier death sentence for Yakub Memon.&nbsp;

Yakub was hanged at Nagpur Prison on July 30, 2015, at 6:35 am IST.

But sadly, Yakub's brother Tiger Memon who is the prime suspect in the 1993 Bombay blasts and is believed to have conspired with Dawood Ibrahim, continues to remain at large till date.&nbsp;

The investigations into the explosion also purportedly exposed the D-Company’s nexus with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).&nbsp;

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A total of 193 of the accused were detained by the Mumbai Police Crime Branch and the Special Task Force, which was led by the Central Bureau of Investigation. A total of 140 people were put on trial; however, 17 of them passed away during the course of&nbsp;the trial. 100 of the 123 suspects who faced trial were found guilty, while 23 were acquitted.&nbsp;

After the attacks, several of the conspirators who managed to escape India were apprehended and sent back.&nbsp; 
 
Gangster Abu Salem was one of them who was extradited to India from Portugal. In 2017, the special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act court convicted six men, including Salem, for the blasts.&nbsp;

Salem is currently serving multiple life sentences in separate cases.

The death penalty was awarded to&nbsp;12 of them. One more passed away from illness, while the Supreme Court of India reduced 10 more death sentences to life in prison. 
 
 
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Sunday (March 12) marks the 30th anniversary of the 1993 serial bomb blasts in Bombay (Mumbai city's official name before 1995), which ripped apart India's financial hub and resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the hands of the dreaded terror attacks.

Sunday (March 12) marks the 30th anniversary of the 1993 serial bomb blasts in Bombay (Mumbai city's official name before 1995), which ripped apart India's financial hub and resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the hands of the dreaded terror attacks. As India looks back at that terrible day 30 years ago, some wounds remain unhealed. But Mumbaikars (the local people of Mumbai) have confronted the fear with courage. There were a total of 12 terrorist bomb blasts on March 12, 1993, that occurred in the city in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The blasts took the lives of 257 people and injured thousands of others. WATCH | BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China? It all started with an explosives-packed automobile which blew off in the basement of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building at around 1:30 in the afternoon on March 12. The explosions shocked the city's most crowded places and lasted for a little over two hours, from 1:30 pm to 3:40 pm. There was panic and confusion everywhere. The injured were rushed to the hospitals which were overcrowded in the aftermath of dozens of blasts on that fateful day, which later came to be known as “Black Friday”. Many still continue to battle the horrors of that day and the dark memories still haunt them. Dawood Ibrahim, one of India's most sought criminals was the mastermind behind the 1993 Mumbai blasts. He is known to have founded the criminal syndicate D-Company in Bombay in the 1970s. Famous actors have played the notorious gangster in several films and television shows that were inspired by him. Many Indian films detail the 1993 terror blasts and ensuing police inquiry. Also Read | To drill or not to drill: Biden to make decision on Alaska oil project But Dawood Ibrahim and another gangster Tiger Memon, the 1993 explosion's masterminds, were able to elude the police and other enforcement agencies. Tiger Memon's real name is Ibrahim Mushtaq Abdul Razzaq Memon, but he is popularly known by his nickname. Yakub Memon, the brother of Tiger Memon, was imprisoned in 1994. He was found guilty of conspiring, organising and funding training, and buying cars used for the bombings. He was convicted and awarded a death sentence in July 2007. After a gruelling 14 years of agony, the Supreme Court of India, in 2013, passed the final judgement on the case and upheld an earlier death sentence for Yakub Memon. Yakub was hanged at Nagpur Prison on July 30, 2015, at 6:35 am IST. But sadly, Yakub's brother Tiger Memon who is the prime suspect in the 1993 Bombay blasts and is believed to have conspired with Dawood Ibrahim, continues to remain at large till date. The investigations into the explosion also purportedly exposed the D-Company’s nexus with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Watch | Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir A total of 193 of the accused were detained by the Mumbai Police Crime Branch and the Special Task Force, which was led by the Central Bureau of Investigation. A total of 140 people were put on trial; however, 17 of them passed away during the course of the trial. 100 of the 123 suspects who faced trial were found guilty, while 23 were acquitted. After the attacks, several of the conspirators who managed to escape India were apprehended and sent back. Gangster Abu Salem was one of them who was extradited to India from Portugal. In 2017, the special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act court convicted six men, including Salem, for the blasts. Salem is currently serving multiple life sentences in separate cases. The death penalty was awarded to 12 of them. One more passed away from illness, while the Supreme Court of India reduced 10 more death sentences to life in prison. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep

An uptick in terror attacks in Pakistan, especially near the Afghan border, is causing alarm and fears of increased regional instability. Watch the video to know more.

Emergence of a new terror group in Pakistan

Despite leadership losses and diminished cash reserves, the extremist group ISIL, or Da'esh, continues to pose a threat to international peace and security, the UN counter-terrorism chief warned in New York.

Terror threat increasing in conflict zones

Singapore's Internal Security Department (ISD) said on Wednesday (January 11) that a 38-year-old teacher with the Ministry of Education (MoE) was arrested as he planned to travel to Palestine to take up armed jihad, reported the Straits Times.&nbsp;The ISD said that Mohamed Khairul Riduan Mohamed Sarip was arrested in October 2022 under the Internal Security Act. 
 
Singapore's Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said on Wednesday that Sarip was the first public servant to be arrested under terror charges.

Sarip was reportedly radicalised by online videos, including those of foreign preachers.

“We have made clear our policy that if you think of going abroad to fight for any cause, we will arrest you and we have a zero-tolerance approach,” said Shanmugam as quoted by the Straits Times.

“We have arrested others who have similarly thought of going to fight.”

The ISD said that Sarip, a Singaporean national, was prepared to travel to Gaza, Palestine to take up arms. In order to avoid getting detected, he planned to pretend that he was going there for humanitarian work&nbsp;but was in fact planning to join the Hamas' military wing.

Sarip had acquired weapons-handling skills during his national service in Singapore and he was confident that these skills would come in handy in Palestine.

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Singapore's Internal Security Department (ISD) said on Wednesday (January 11) that a 38-year-old teacher with the Ministry of Education (MoE) was arrested as he planned to travel to Palestine to take up armed jihad, reported the Straits Times.

Singapore's Internal Security Department (ISD) said on Wednesday (January 11) that a 38-year-old teacher with the Ministry of Education (MoE) was arrested as he planned to travel to Palestine to take up armed jihad, reported the Straits Times. The ISD said that Mohamed Khairul Riduan Mohamed Sarip was arrested in October 2022 under the Internal Security Act. Singapore's Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said on Wednesday that Sarip was the first public servant to be arrested under terror charges. Sarip was reportedly radicalised by online videos, including those of foreign preachers. “We have made clear our policy that if you think of going abroad to fight for any cause, we will arrest you and we have a zero-tolerance approach,” said Shanmugam as quoted by the Straits Times. “We have arrested others who have similarly thought of going to fight.” The ISD said that Sarip, a Singaporean national, was prepared to travel to Gaza, Palestine to take up arms. In order to avoid getting detected, he planned to pretend that he was going there for humanitarian work but was in fact planning to join the Hamas' military wing. Sarip had acquired weapons-handling skills during his national service in Singapore and he was confident that these skills would come in handy in Palestine. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Singapore: Teacher arrested on terror charges, planned to go to Palestine, join Hamas for Jihad

Russian President Putin has now warned about the development of terrorist groups along the Afghan border and also their infiltration into the Commonwealth independent states.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warns of terror cells at Afghan border

The United Nations security council's counter-terrorism committee meeting in India has now concluded. The second and the final day of the summit was held in Delhi.

India warns against growing threat of terror

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres is currently paying tributes to the victims of the 26/11 Terror attacks at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai on the first day of his three-day visit to India, let's listen in.

India: UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres pays tributes to 26/11 terror attack victims in Mumbai

In a first, Kashmiri victims of cross-border terrorism addressed United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) event which has been welcomed by India. Tasleema and Shuaib highlighted the plight of the terror victims, especially Kashmiri women. Addressing the sideline event, Tasleema said, "I have witnessed many close family members being brutally murdered by terrorists" highlighting, "we remain unacknowledged..."

Both Tasleema and Shuaib have worked and documented the plight of many terrorism victims at the grassroots level. Shuaib explained, "Like my family, the valley has witnessed thousands of innocent lives being lost at the hands of terrorism in three decades....It is more challenging for a women victim to speak about exploitation". Shuaib's father was killed by terrorists.

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He said, "The families&nbsp;of victims of cross border terrorism continue to live in fear and threat. I have a strong faith in the international community, role to address these challenges."&nbsp;He also showed a film highlighting the plight of victims.

Meanwhile, welcoming the development, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to a question at a daily presser said, "We talk about terrorism in this way very dispassionately, I think directly listening to the victims makes a difference and it is a good step that the council can hear them directly, the victims of terrorism", adding, "I can't express what impact it will have right now, but it is important that a human face is given to the victims of terrorism, and they are not just numbers or figures." 
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In a first, Kashmiri victims of cross-border terrorism addressed United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) event which has been welcomed by India. Tasleema and Shuaib highlighted the plight of the terror victims, especially Kashmiri women.

In a first, Kashmiri victims of cross-border terrorism addressed United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) event which has been welcomed by India. Tasleema and Shuaib highlighted the plight of the terror victims, especially Kashmiri women. Addressing the sideline event, Tasleema said, "I have witnessed many close family members being brutally murdered by terrorists" highlighting, "we remain unacknowledged..." Both Tasleema and Shuaib have worked and documented the plight of many terrorism victims at the grassroots level. Shuaib explained, "Like my family, the valley has witnessed thousands of innocent lives being lost at the hands of terrorism in three decades....It is more challenging for a women victim to speak about exploitation". Shuaib's father was killed by terrorists. Also Read: Moody's downgrades Pakistan's economic outlook to negative, gives 'C rating' after seven years He said, "The families of victims of cross border terrorism continue to live in fear and threat. I have a strong faith in the international community, role to address these challenges." He also showed a film highlighting the plight of victims. Meanwhile, welcoming the development, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to a question at a daily presser said, "We talk about terrorism in this way very dispassionately, I think directly listening to the victims makes a difference and it is a good step that the council can hear them directly, the victims of terrorism", adding, "I can't express what impact it will have right now, but it is important that a human face is given to the victims of terrorism, and they are not just numbers or figures."

Kashmiri terror victims address UNHRC event, highlight plight; India welcomes move

Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs has written a letter to Afghanistan formally asking&nbsp;the Afghan authorities to locate and arrest&nbsp;Masood Azhar, the founder of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), while sharing details of regions where he is suspected to be present. In the letter, the foreign office also asked to locate and arrest him. Masood Azhar is the founder of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).&nbsp;

In the letter, Pakistan suggests&nbsp;that Masood Azhar is likely to be in the Nangarhar and Kunhar areas of Afghanistan, and thereby tries to convey that the dreaded terrorist is not in Pakistan even as there are no official details&nbsp;about&nbsp;Masood's whereabouts. It is also not clear when exactly did&nbsp;Azhar move to&nbsp;Afghanistan—after the Taliban took control of Kabul last year in August, or before that.&nbsp;

A top official who is related&nbsp;to the development told Pakistan-based Geo News&nbsp;correspondent: "We have written a one-page letter to the Afghan Foreign Ministry asking them to locate, report and arrest Masood Azhar, as we believe that he is hiding somewhere in Afghanistan." The official&nbsp;requested for&nbsp;anonymity.&nbsp;

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JeM is responsible for multiple deadly attacks in&nbsp;India, including the attack on the Indian Parliament in December 2001. The attack had brought India and Pakistan to the brink of a full-scale war. Masood Azhar is India's most wanted terrorist.&nbsp;

Now, Pakistan has demanded that Afghan authorities should locate the JeM's chief and report to the Pakistani authorities.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Imran Khan throws a 'political googly'&nbsp;

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In 2019, the United Nations had been listed Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the Al-Qaeda and Taliban Sanctions Committee.&nbsp;

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has been mounting pressure on Islamabad to take action against terror funding from its soil. The Paris-headquartered watchdog has also hinted at the probability of Pakistan being taken off the grey list if it takes action&nbsp;against terrorists and terror groups. 
 
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Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs has written a letter to Afghanistan formally asking the Afghan authorities to locate and arrest Masood Azhar, the founder of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), while sharing details of regions where he is suspected to be present.

Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs has written a letter to Afghanistan formally asking the Afghan authorities to locate and arrest Masood Azhar, the founder of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), while sharing details of regions where he is suspected to be present. In the letter, the foreign office also asked to locate and arrest him. Masood Azhar is the founder of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). In the letter, Pakistan suggests that Masood Azhar is likely to be in the Nangarhar and Kunhar areas of Afghanistan, and thereby tries to convey that the dreaded terrorist is not in Pakistan even as there are no official details about Masood's whereabouts. It is also not clear when exactly did Azhar move to Afghanistan—after the Taliban took control of Kabul last year in August, or before that. A top official who is related to the development told Pakistan-based Geo News correspondent: "We have written a one-page letter to the Afghan Foreign Ministry asking them to locate, report and arrest Masood Azhar, as we believe that he is hiding somewhere in Afghanistan." The official requested for anonymity. ALSO READ | Taliban claim eliminating 40 resistance fighters in Panjshir JeM is responsible for multiple deadly attacks in India, including the attack on the Indian Parliament in December 2001. The attack had brought India and Pakistan to the brink of a full-scale war. Masood Azhar is India's most wanted terrorist. Now, Pakistan has demanded that Afghan authorities should locate the JeM's chief and report to the Pakistani authorities. WATCH | Gravitas: Imran Khan throws a 'political googly' × ALOS READ | Chinese-built Lotus Tower in Sri Lanka all set to open this week In 2019, the United Nations had been listed Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the Al-Qaeda and Taliban Sanctions Committee. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has been mounting pressure on Islamabad to take action against terror funding from its soil. The Paris-headquartered watchdog has also hinted at the probability of Pakistan being taken off the grey list if it takes action against terrorists and terror groups. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan asks Afghanistan to arrest JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar, shares his likely whereabouts

Security forces in Jammu & Kashmir are on alert as 150 terrorists at LoC are waiting to sneak in from Pak Terror camps. Weapons are being smuggled via drones to help terrorists.

Security forces in Jammu & Kashmir on alert; terror launch pads active across LoC

In 2008, India was reeling after the dastardly Mumbai terror attacks. The investigative agencies were exposed for failing to gather intel. It was the lack of an agency to probe such terrorism cases at a national level that led to creation of National Investigation Agency or NIA.

India@75: The National Investigation Agency (NIA)

Hekmatullah, an extremist Afghan soldier who killed three innocent Australian miners in Afghanistan at least ten years ago, is now living a a life of luxury&nbsp;in Kabul as a "hero" under the Taliban's reign after the group retook control of the nation in August 2021.

The rogue soldier allegedly said to a representative of the former Afghan government, that he would continue killing foreigners.&nbsp;

When the Taliban intended to free 5,000 prisoners as part of peace talks with the United States in 2020, Hekmatullah's release was negotiated by the terrorist group. After twenty years, the US forces left Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to retake the nation and precipitate the fall of the civilian government.

He was one of the six terrorists that the Western nations were vehemently battling, it should be noted. According to the article, the West was attempting to prevent the release of terrorists who had killed foreigners who were not armed, did not feel bad about their actions, or had vowed to carry out more violent terrorism.

Hekmatullah has reportedly been living in Wazir Akbar Khan, a former diplomatic district, ever since returning to Afghanistan under the control of the Taliban. According to the source, the jihadist currently resides in a highly guarded home in a neighbourhood close to the covert former residence of Ayman al-Zawahiri, the former al-Qaeda commander who was assassinated on July 31 as he stood on the balcony of his villa by a US drone strike.

Returning to Afghanistan as a war hero&nbsp;

Even the Australian government, which had earlier admitted it had no idea where Hekmatullah was, blocked his release in 2020.

Hekmatullah's return to the country's insurgency-torn territory was also confirmed by a former top official in Afghanistan's former civilian government, according to the media site. "He [Hekmatullah] was welcomed back to Kabul as a hero,&nbsp;with a home, a car, guards, a pardon for his crimes, and financial support for his bills."

(With inputs from the Guardian)

Hekmatullah, an extremist Afghan soldier who killed three innocent Australian miners in Afghanistan at least ten years ago, is now living a a life of luxury in Kabul as a "hero" under the Taliban's reign after the group retook control of the nation in August 2021.

Hekmatullah, an extremist Afghan soldier who killed three innocent Australian miners in Afghanistan at least ten years ago, is now living a a life of luxury in Kabul as a "hero" under the Taliban's reign after the group retook control of the nation in August 2021. The rogue soldier allegedly said to a representative of the former Afghan government, that he would continue killing foreigners. When the Taliban intended to free 5,000 prisoners as part of peace talks with the United States in 2020, Hekmatullah's release was negotiated by the terrorist group. After twenty years, the US forces left Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to retake the nation and precipitate the fall of the civilian government. He was one of the six terrorists that the Western nations were vehemently battling, it should be noted. According to the article, the West was attempting to prevent the release of terrorists who had killed foreigners who were not armed, did not feel bad about their actions, or had vowed to carry out more violent terrorism. Hekmatullah has reportedly been living in Wazir Akbar Khan, a former diplomatic district, ever since returning to Afghanistan under the control of the Taliban. According to the source, the jihadist currently resides in a highly guarded home in a neighbourhood close to the covert former residence of Ayman al-Zawahiri, the former al-Qaeda commander who was assassinated on July 31 as he stood on the balcony of his villa by a US drone strike. Returning to Afghanistan as a war hero Even the Australian government, which had earlier admitted it had no idea where Hekmatullah was, blocked his release in 2020. Hekmatullah's return to the country's insurgency-torn territory was also confirmed by a former top official in Afghanistan's former civilian government, according to the media site. "He [Hekmatullah] was welcomed back to Kabul as a hero, with a home, a car, guards, a pardon for his crimes, and financial support for his bills." (With inputs from the Guardian)

Taliban honouring 'Hero' Afghan soldier in Kabul who killed unarmed Australian diggers

An Al-Qaeda-affiliated group has now claimed responsibility for a terror attack that took place on a military base close to Bamako on Friday. The raid was carried out using two car bombs.

Al-Qaeda affiliate claims attack on key military base near Mali's capital

At least three people were killed and several injured after a gunman opened fire at a packed mall in the capital Copenhagen. Among the injured, three are said to be in critical condition. The Denmark police as well as the Prime Minister&nbsp;Mette Frederiksen and other people showed concerns regarding the increasing rate of violence in the country.&nbsp;Officers were called to the Fields shopping center which is&nbsp;located near to the&nbsp;airport, at around&nbsp;5:30 pm, after reports of&nbsp;a gunman&nbsp;firing shots came.

<h2>Who did the firing?</h2>

The police said that they have arrested a 22-year-old Danish resident, indicating that he was the sole person involved in the mass shooting. They said that the motive of the 22-year-old remain unclear, adding that he was known to the police "but only peripherally”. Police inspector Soren Thomassen said that, there was&nbsp;no indication that anyone else was involved in the attack,&nbsp;though police were still investigating.&nbsp;He was arrested peacefully shortly after police arrived at the scene. “Police arrested the suspect thirteen minutes after receiving the first emergency call about the shooting”, Thomassen said. According to witnesses, the young Danish man, armed with a large rifle, started shooting uniseriately at the large Fields shopping mall, located between the city centre and Copenhagen airport.

<h2>How many people were killed and injured?</h2>

The victims included a man in his 40s and two young people. However, no details about them were given by the police.&nbsp;Soren Thomassen said that, "several others were injured, three of them critically".&nbsp;Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said that the country has been hit by a "cruel attack".&nbsp;Images from the scene showed people running out of the mall while some were seen on stretcher, taken to the hospital.&nbsp;A spokesman for Rigshospitalet, Denmark's largest hospital, told CNN that the hospital had taken in several victims and had called in extra staff to deal with the emergency.

<h2>What is going on in&nbsp;Social Media?</h2>

On social media, people had been speculating about a racist motive, or some other, but the head of the investigation said, " I cannot say that we have anything which supports that at this moment."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> shooting rampage in Copenhagen, Denmark; Several people shot according to Danish police 
<a href="https://t.co/ywh4RJvt6k">pic.twitter.com/ywh4RJvt6k</a>
— Amichai Stein (@AmichaiStein1) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmichaiStein1/status/1543643125549244416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Police, however, confirmed that they were probing videos posted online which claimed to show the suspect with weapons and pointing a gun at his head.

A phone line for victims has been opened and police said they have set up a central location where eyewitnesses can get support and report their experiences to law enforcement officials.

<h1>Harry Styles&nbsp;Copenhagen's show cancelled</h1>

Due to the tragic incident in Copenhagen, Harry Styles has cancelled his show in the city. He released a statement on twitter mentioning the same and expressed grief for the ones killed and injured in the attack. He mentioned that he is "heartbroken" after the attack. He&nbsp;was scheduled to perform at the nearby Royal Arena venue on Sunday night as part of his ongoing Love On Tour.&nbsp;

See his tweet below,&nbsp;

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I’m heartbroken along with the people of Copenhagen. I adore this city. The people are so warm and full of love. 
 
I’m devastated for the victims, their families, and everyone hurting. 
 
I’m sorry we couldn’t be together. Please look after each other. H
— Harry Styles. (@Harry_Styles) <a href="https://twitter.com/Harry_Styles/status/1543726272303472657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sunday’s gun attack is the worst in Denmark’s history since February 2015, when a 22-year-old man was killed in a shootout with police after going on a shooting spree in the capital that left two people dead and five police officers wounded. The shooting comes a week after a mass shooting in neighbouring Norway, where police said a Norwegian man of Iranian origin opened fire during a LGBTQ festival, killing two and wounding more than 20.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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At least three people were killed and several injured after a gunman opened fire at a packed mall in the capital Copenhagen. Among the injured, three are said to be in critical condition.

At least three people were killed and several injured after a gunman opened fire at a packed mall in the capital Copenhagen. Among the injured, three are said to be in critical condition. The Denmark police as well as the Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and other people showed concerns regarding the increasing rate of violence in the country. Officers were called to the Fields shopping center which is located near to the airport, at around 5:30 pm, after reports of a gunman firing shots came. Who did the firing? The police said that they have arrested a 22-year-old Danish resident, indicating that he was the sole person involved in the mass shooting. They said that the motive of the 22-year-old remain unclear, adding that he was known to the police "but only peripherally”. Police inspector Soren Thomassen said that, there was no indication that anyone else was involved in the attack, though police were still investigating. He was arrested peacefully shortly after police arrived at the scene. “Police arrested the suspect thirteen minutes after receiving the first emergency call about the shooting”, Thomassen said. According to witnesses, the young Danish man, armed with a large rifle, started shooting uniseriately at the large Fields shopping mall, located between the city centre and Copenhagen airport. How many people were killed and injured? The victims included a man in his 40s and two young people. However, no details about them were given by the police. Soren Thomassen said that, "several others were injured, three of them critically". Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said that the country has been hit by a "cruel attack". Images from the scene showed people running out of the mall while some were seen on stretcher, taken to the hospital. A spokesman for Rigshospitalet, Denmark's largest hospital, told CNN that the hospital had taken in several victims and had called in extra staff to deal with the emergency. What is going on in Social Media? On social media, people had been speculating about a racist motive, or some other, but the head of the investigation said, " I cannot say that we have anything which supports that at this moment." #BREAKING shooting rampage in Copenhagen, Denmark; Several people shot according to Danish police pic.twitter.com/ywh4RJvt6k — Amichai Stein (@AmichaiStein1) July 3, 2022 × Police, however, confirmed that they were probing videos posted online which claimed to show the suspect with weapons and pointing a gun at his head. A phone line for victims has been opened and police said they have set up a central location where eyewitnesses can get support and report their experiences to law enforcement officials. Harry Styles Copenhagen's show cancelled Due to the tragic incident in Copenhagen, Harry Styles has cancelled his show in the city. He released a statement on twitter mentioning the same and expressed grief for the ones killed and injured in the attack. He mentioned that he is "heartbroken" after the attack. He was scheduled to perform at the nearby Royal Arena venue on Sunday night as part of his ongoing Love On Tour. See his tweet below, I’m heartbroken along with the people of Copenhagen. I adore this city. The people are so warm and full of love. I’m devastated for the victims, their families, and everyone hurting. I’m sorry we couldn’t be together. Please look after each other. H — Harry Styles. (@Harry_Styles) July 3, 2022 × Sunday’s gun attack is the worst in Denmark’s history since February 2015, when a 22-year-old man was killed in a shootout with police after going on a shooting spree in the capital that left two people dead and five police officers wounded. The shooting comes a week after a mass shooting in neighbouring Norway, where police said a Norwegian man of Iranian origin opened fire during a LGBTQ festival, killing two and wounding more than 20. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Denmark Copenhagen Mall shooting: At least three killed and several injured, Harry Styles show cancelled

Targeted blasts and bombings are on the rise across Afghanistan once again, just a few months after the Taliban took over Kabul. Mariam Wardak gets you the full report in this week's South Asia Diary.

South Asia Diary | Resurgent terror threat in Afghanistan

Targeted blasts and bombings are on the rise across Afghanistan, just a few months after the Taliban took over Kabul. Mariam Wardak brings you the plight of innocent Afghans who are once again facing the threat of extremist terror.

South Asia Diary | Resurgent terror threat in Afghanistan | Sri Lanka's economic crisis

For the first time ever, Kashmir hosted a Fashion Week on the banks of the famous Dal Lake. India Cult Men’s Fashion Week is showcasing 10 fashion designers from across the country. Various models from Delhi and Mumbai have been flown in for the show as well.

On the lawns of SKICC overlooking Dal Lake, the ramp has been set up in such a way that it looks like fashion is meeting nature. The organisers have been wanting to do a fashion week in Srinagar for a long time.

"We have been in conversation with Adnan for a long time, as we did a show earlier too. We had been planning it for a long time and finally thought the time was right to execute it. We are glad to do fashion week on the banks of Dal Lake as it adds so much to the collection being showcased, "said Gaurav Gupta, the organiser.

The organisers also believe that having fashion week in Kashmir will be a learning platform for the youngsters of Kashmir, who want to take up modelling and designing as their profession.

"I was a model earlier and shifted back to Kashmir to create a platform for the local youth to take up modelling as their career. This is my way of giving back to society. We are using more than 25 local models in the fashion week, and it’s a platform where designers can showcase their work, "Adnan Shah, the organizer, stated. 
 
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Some of the most popular Bollywood actors and models are walking in the shows as well. Young Kashmiri models are excited about fashion week taking place for the first time as it means they don’t have to move out of Kashmir to take up modelling as their career. 
 
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"We are extremely happy about Fashion Week being held here. This is a platform that is available&nbsp;to us in our hometown and makes a lot of difference. This is a learning experience for all the Kashmiri models. We get to be a part of such an amazing team. We learn from the models from other places. This also gives us hope that we can take up modelling and designing as our careers, says Salik Ahmad, a local model.

The fashion week has been sponsored by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department and Srinagar Smart City.

For the first time ever, Kashmir hosted a Fashion Week on the banks of the famous Dal Lake. India Cult Men’s Fashion Week is showcasing 10 fashion designers from across the country.

For the first time ever, Kashmir hosted a Fashion Week on the banks of the famous Dal Lake. India Cult Men’s Fashion Week is showcasing 10 fashion designers from across the country. Various models from Delhi and Mumbai have been flown in for the show as well. On the lawns of SKICC overlooking Dal Lake, the ramp has been set up in such a way that it looks like fashion is meeting nature. The organisers have been wanting to do a fashion week in Srinagar for a long time. "We have been in conversation with Adnan for a long time, as we did a show earlier too. We had been planning it for a long time and finally thought the time was right to execute it. We are glad to do fashion week on the banks of Dal Lake as it adds so much to the collection being showcased, "said Gaurav Gupta, the organiser. The organisers also believe that having fashion week in Kashmir will be a learning platform for the youngsters of Kashmir, who want to take up modelling and designing as their profession. "I was a model earlier and shifted back to Kashmir to create a platform for the local youth to take up modelling as their career. This is my way of giving back to society. We are using more than 25 local models in the fashion week, and it’s a platform where designers can showcase their work, "Adnan Shah, the organizer, stated. Some of the most popular Bollywood actors and models are walking in the shows as well. Young Kashmiri models are excited about fashion week taking place for the first time as it means they don’t have to move out of Kashmir to take up modelling as their career. "We are extremely happy about Fashion Week being held here. This is a platform that is available to us in our hometown and makes a lot of difference. This is a learning experience for all the Kashmiri models. We get to be a part of such an amazing team. We learn from the models from other places. This also gives us hope that we can take up modelling and designing as our careers, says Salik Ahmad, a local model. The fashion week has been sponsored by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department and Srinagar Smart City.

Kashmir hosts its first ever 'Fashion Week' near Dal lake

The Interior ministry of Tunisia said in an official statement on Wednesday that they have dismantled a terrorist cell linked to ISIS. According to the statement, the units from the Anti-Terrorism department at Tunisia’s National Guard broke up militants who were linked to an extremist group that had earlier pledged allegiance to ISIS in the southern Tunisian city of Tataouine.<o:p></o:p>

The statement from the interior ministry also stated that the Tunisian authorities believed that the cell was planning attacks with explosives and was trying to recruit young people.

<o:p>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-is-the-western-press-asking-same-agenda-driven-motivated-questions-462899">&nbsp;</a></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-is-the-western-press-asking-same-agenda-driven-motivated-questions-462899">'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions?</a><o:p></o:p>

“The cell included six members and is active in the Tataouine region led by a Takfiri (extremist) fighter. Its fighters had pledged allegiance to the leader of the so-called ISIS terrorist group. They deliberately attracted a group of young men to adopt the Takfiri ideology and also planned to manufacture explosive materials,” the statement read.<o:p></o:p>

In the last year, there have been a number of reports regarding militants close to ISIS planning terror attacks in Tunisia. According to a recent report by Reuters, it is estimated that more than 3,000 Tunisians have joined the war in Syria and Iraq fighting on the side of the Islamic State.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-north-korea-missile-fails-after-launch-over-pyongyang-462817">Suspected North Korea missile fails after launch over Pyongyang</a>

The Tunisian army has been battling armed extremist groups since 2012 in the country’s central mountains and according to the reports, they include fighters from Jund al-Khalifa, or “Soldiers of the Caliphate”, linked to the ISIS group and jihadists from Okba Ibn Nafaa.<o:p></o:p>

In 2015, assailants killed 15 soldiers on Mount Chaambi and in February this year, ISIS claimed responsibility for the death of four soldiers in the three blasts near Mount Mghila.<o:p></o:p>

The Interior ministry of Tunisia said in an official statement on Wednesday that they have dismantled a terrorist cell linked to ISIS. According to the statement, the units from the Anti-Terrorism department at Tunisia’s National Guard broke up militants who were linked to an extremist group that had earlier pledged allegiance to ISIS in the southern Tunisian city of Tataouine.

The Interior ministry of Tunisia said in an official statement on Wednesday that they have dismantled a terrorist cell linked to ISIS. According to the statement, the units from the Anti-Terrorism department at Tunisia’s National Guard broke up militants who were linked to an extremist group that had earlier pledged allegiance to ISIS in the southern Tunisian city of Tataouine. The statement from the interior ministry also stated that the Tunisian authorities believed that the cell was planning attacks with explosives and was trying to recruit young people. Also read | 'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions? “The cell included six members and is active in the Tataouine region led by a Takfiri (extremist) fighter. Its fighters had pledged allegiance to the leader of the so-called ISIS terrorist group. They deliberately attracted a group of young men to adopt the Takfiri ideology and also planned to manufacture explosive materials,” the statement read. In the last year, there have been a number of reports regarding militants close to ISIS planning terror attacks in Tunisia. According to a recent report by Reuters, it is estimated that more than 3,000 Tunisians have joined the war in Syria and Iraq fighting on the side of the Islamic State. Also read | Suspected North Korea missile fails after launch over Pyongyang The Tunisian army has been battling armed extremist groups since 2012 in the country’s central mountains and according to the reports, they include fighters from Jund al-Khalifa, or “Soldiers of the Caliphate”, linked to the ISIS group and jihadists from Okba Ibn Nafaa. In 2015, assailants killed 15 soldiers on Mount Chaambi and in February this year, ISIS claimed responsibility for the death of four soldiers in the three blasts near Mount Mghila.

Tunisia dismantles terrorist group linked to ISIS in Tataouine

The leader of the Islamic State, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashemi al-Quraishi blew himself and his family members up during a US military raid in Syria in 2022. A look at America's war on Terror over past few years.

America's war on Terror: Looking back at US special operations

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs has termed the Tablighi Jamaat a terrorist organisation and asked preachers to warn people against the group. Palki Sharma tells you why the group has become so controversial.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia says Tablighi Jamaat is a terrorist organisation

The Lahore High Court has acquitted six senior leaders of Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's banned Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) in a terror financing case.

Pakistan court acquits Hafiz Saeed's aides in terror financing case

The Assam Police have sounded an alert over possible terror strikes by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and terror outfit al-Qaeda over alleged persecution of Muslims in the northeastern Indian state.

A circular issued by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) on Saturday said the alert has been issued following reports received from the Special Branch of the state police.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-civilians-killed-in-october-alone-in-terrorist-attacks-in-jk-421659">11 civilians killed in October alone in terrorist attacks in J&amp;K</a>

The circular said the ISI is planning to target individuals including the cadres from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)—India's Hindu nationalist organisation—and army areas in Assam and other places in India.

"There is also a threat from global terror outfits to indulge in spectacular action by resorting to explosion of bombs/ IEDs in places of mass gathering/ mass transport/ religious places, etc," the circular stated.

Another input quoted in the circular said the al-Qaeda has called for jihad in Assam and Kashmir.

The circular further said the general secretariat of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has released a statement regarding the Dhalpur eviction drive in Assam's Darrang district, which had claimed the lives of two persons.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-attacks-on-civilians-continue-terrorists-kill-two-labourers-in-kulgam-421608">J&amp;K: Attacks on civilians continue, terrorists kill two labourers in Kulgam</a>

Over 20 people were injured, including policemen, in the anti-encroachment drive against illegal settlers? at Dhalpur in September.

In the statement released through Twitter, the OIC has condemned the systematic persecution and violence ramped up against the Muslim community in Assam'.

Given the inputs, the state's entire police machinery has been asked to take preventive and precautionary measures to thwart any evil design by global terror outfits and fundamental/ radical elements.

All ground sources and intelligence gathering machinery have been asked to be geared up in the districts.&nbsp;

The Assam Police have sounded an alert over possible terror strikes by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and terror outfit al-Qaeda over alleged persecution of Muslims in the northeastern Indian state.

The Assam Police have sounded an alert over possible terror strikes by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and terror outfit al-Qaeda over alleged persecution of Muslims in the northeastern Indian state. A circular issued by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) on Saturday said the alert has been issued following reports received from the Special Branch of the state police. Also Read | 11 civilians killed in October alone in terrorist attacks in J&K The circular said the ISI is planning to target individuals including the cadres from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)—India's Hindu nationalist organisation—and army areas in Assam and other places in India. "There is also a threat from global terror outfits to indulge in spectacular action by resorting to explosion of bombs/ IEDs in places of mass gathering/ mass transport/ religious places, etc," the circular stated. Another input quoted in the circular said the al-Qaeda has called for jihad in Assam and Kashmir. The circular further said the general secretariat of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has released a statement regarding the Dhalpur eviction drive in Assam's Darrang district, which had claimed the lives of two persons. Also Read | J&K: Attacks on civilians continue, terrorists kill two labourers in Kulgam Over 20 people were injured, including policemen, in the anti-encroachment drive against illegal settlers? at Dhalpur in September. In the statement released through Twitter, the OIC has condemned the systematic persecution and violence ramped up against the Muslim community in Assam'. Given the inputs, the state's entire police machinery has been asked to take preventive and precautionary measures to thwart any evil design by global terror outfits and fundamental/ radical elements. All ground sources and intelligence gathering machinery have been asked to be geared up in the districts.

Alert in India's northeastern Assam state over threats from ISI, Al-Qaeda

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other British leaders paid their respects Saturday morning at a church east of London where a Conservative lawmaker was fatally stabbed a day earlier, as the country grappled with another apparent episode of lone-wolf terrorism.

A somber Johnson — joined by the opposition leader, Keir Starmer, and other officials — laid flowers outside the Methodist church in Leigh-on-Sea, a sleepy seaside community that was convulsed Friday when the lawmaker, David Amess, was assaulted during a routine meeting with constituents.

The police arrested a 25-year-old man at the scene and said they were conducting searches at two locations in the London area. The Metropolitan Police formally declared the attack a terrorist episode, with a potential link to Islamist extremism, but they have not yet identified the man, who they said they believed acted alone. The BBC, citing government sources, reported that he was a British national who appeared to be of Somali heritage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-conservative-mp-dies-after-getting-stabbed-multiple-times-suspect-arrested-421026">UK: Conservative MP dies after getting stabbed multiple times; Suspect arrested</a>

The brutal attack, at midday and in full view of the public, has stunned the British political establishment and fanned questions about the security of members of Parliament. Lawmakers regularly meet their constituents, unprotected, to hear their concerns and grievances in sessions that can at times become heated.

As Scotland Yard scrambled for answers Saturday, public officials paid tribute to Amess’ long record of government service.

Commissioner Roger Hirst of the Essex Police, which has jurisdiction over Leigh-on-Sea, said in a statement that it was “a somber moment of reflection to remember a man who worked so hard for his community, who served those he represented passionately and made a real difference for Southend.”

On the town’s normally tranquil streets, the sudden spasm of violence had not yet fully sunk in. On Saturday morning, the police canvassed residents near the church, seeking witnesses. Chaplains consoled a steady stream of people who visited the area where Amess was killed.

Fidelia McGhee, 48, who lives near the site of the attack, said Amess had always championed local causes. She praised him as a kind, committed politician. She called the attack “the stuff of nightmares” that would leave an indelible mark on the town.

“It is quite tragic,” she said. “I think we’ve lost something we will never get back.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other British leaders paid their respects Saturday morning at a church east of London where a Conservative lawmaker was fatally stabbed a day earlier, as the country grappled with another apparent episode of lone-wolf terrorism.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other British leaders paid their respects Saturday morning at a church east of London where a Conservative lawmaker was fatally stabbed a day earlier, as the country grappled with another apparent episode of lone-wolf terrorism. A somber Johnson — joined by the opposition leader, Keir Starmer, and other officials — laid flowers outside the Methodist church in Leigh-on-Sea, a sleepy seaside community that was convulsed Friday when the lawmaker, David Amess, was assaulted during a routine meeting with constituents. The police arrested a 25-year-old man at the scene and said they were conducting searches at two locations in the London area. The Metropolitan Police formally declared the attack a terrorist episode, with a potential link to Islamist extremism, but they have not yet identified the man, who they said they believed acted alone. The BBC, citing government sources, reported that he was a British national who appeared to be of Somali heritage. Also read | UK: Conservative MP dies after getting stabbed multiple times; Suspect arrested The brutal attack, at midday and in full view of the public, has stunned the British political establishment and fanned questions about the security of members of Parliament. Lawmakers regularly meet their constituents, unprotected, to hear their concerns and grievances in sessions that can at times become heated. As Scotland Yard scrambled for answers Saturday, public officials paid tribute to Amess’ long record of government service. Commissioner Roger Hirst of the Essex Police, which has jurisdiction over Leigh-on-Sea, said in a statement that it was “a somber moment of reflection to remember a man who worked so hard for his community, who served those he represented passionately and made a real difference for Southend.” On the town’s normally tranquil streets, the sudden spasm of violence had not yet fully sunk in. On Saturday morning, the police canvassed residents near the church, seeking witnesses. Chaplains consoled a steady stream of people who visited the area where Amess was killed. Fidelia McGhee, 48, who lives near the site of the attack, said Amess had always championed local causes. She praised him as a kind, committed politician. She called the attack “the stuff of nightmares” that would leave an indelible mark on the town. “It is quite tragic,” she said. “I think we’ve lost something we will never get back.”

With lawmaker’s killing, the UK confronts a new episode of terrorism

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day.

Also Read |&nbsp;Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh

Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday.

On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing.

But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO.

Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday.

Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area.

Also Read |&nbsp;'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces

"After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district.

"The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said.

They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known. Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day. Also Read | Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday. On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing. But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO. Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday. Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area. Also Read | 'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces "After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district. "The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said. They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

Anti-terror operation in India's Jammu and Kashmir enters 5th day

Sixty days after the Taliban took over the reigns of power in Afghanistan, terror has struck Taliban's birthplace and its control centre Kandahar, a blast has been reported during Friday prayers. Anas Mallick brings you more.

Afghanistan: Explosion in Kandahar mosque; 16 killed, 32 injured

The state government has sounded a terror alert in the state during the 'pujas'&nbsp;- an indication that West Bengal is the new terror target.

Though senior police officers are yet to jump to any conclusion, arrests made by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Kolkata Special Task Force (STF) in the last few months show the movement of terror modules in the state.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dasara-festivities-begin-in-mysuru-amid-covid-19-restrictions-418869">Dasara festivities begin in Mysuru amid COVID-19 restrictions</a>

According to the NIA, these terror operatives use the porous Bangladesh border to enter the country.

The alert issued by the state home department asked Durga puja organisers to set up systems to monitor crowd movement. They have been asked to install CCTV cameras and watch towers in the vicinity of puja pandals and work in close coordination with the local police station.

The notice also mentioned that immersion of all idols have to be completed between October 15 (Dashami) and October 18 in consultation with local police stations. "In the context of the prevailing threats from divisive and terrorist groups to destabilise the country and to create law-and-order problems, you are advised to exercise utmost vigilance during the celebration of the festivals," the statement read.

It further suggested, "The community puja organizers should be asked to engage adequate numbers of volunteers in Puja pandals to keep vigil on the movement of suspicious persons and all the volunteers should be directed to keep in touch with local police constantly."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-indian-plans-to-participate-in-sco-anti-terror-exercises-in-pakistan-410585">No Indian plans to participate in SCO anti-terror exercises in Pakistan&nbsp;</a>

"The state government's effort to involve the puja committees in the security mechanism is a significant development. It shows that the state home department is planning for a wider safety and security chain which in itself is conclusive enough to understand the importance and the possibility of an attack," a senior official of the state home department said.

The NIA arrested Aal Halif alias Abu Ibrahim -&nbsp;one of the most dreaded IS handlers in this subcontinent from Bengaluru in 2020. This IS handler was a meritorious student of economics before his entry into the terror world. Halif disguised as Sujit Chandra Debnath was working as an assistant of a mason in Bengaluru.

Similarly, Kolkata STF -&nbsp;the elite Kolkata Police force arrested three JMB handlers - Naziur Rahman Pavel, Mikail Khan and Rabiul Islam -&nbsp;who sneaked into the India and were residing in the posh residential area of the city.

To avoid detection, Pavel used the Hindu name Jayram Bepari. He and Mekail Khan alias Sheikh Sabbir befriended two Hindu women in the Haridevpur area and had planned to get married. This would have helped them recruit more people without arousing suspicion.

These are not isolated examples but there are several other instances when the terror handlers have been using religion as a tool to fox the investigators. "Religion is no more a taboo for the terror groups rather they are using it as a tool to hide their identity. Changing religion is no more an important thing for these handlers rather they are using it effectively to dodge surveillance," a senior Kolkata Special Task Force Officer (STF) said.

Another factor that is keeping the police and the investigation agencies on the tenterhooks is the lockdown and the subsequent unemployment which is making the work of these terror groups easier. Taking advantage of the porous border with Bangladesh and unemployment, international terror groups like JMB, Ansarullah Faction and even Islamic State are trying to spread their network in the state. The aim is to make West Bengal, the headquarters of the terror activities in entire eastern India.

Sometimes through direct interaction and at times through online, they are targeting brainy but unemployed young boys and girls in the state. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Special Task Force (STF) of the Kolkata Police have secured this information from the three JMB terrorists who were arrested by the STF sleuths recently from a colony in the southern outskirts of Kolkata. The investigation officials are worried that because of systematic brainwashing by these terror groups many meritorious but unemployed youths are getting lost from mainstream society.

The state government has sounded a terror alert in the state during the 'pujas' - an indication that West Bengal is the new terror target. Though senior police officers are yet to jump to any conclusion, arrests made by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Kolkata Special Task Force (STF) in the last few months show the movement of terror modules in the state.

The state government has sounded a terror alert in the state during the 'pujas' - an indication that West Bengal is the new terror target. Though senior police officers are yet to jump to any conclusion, arrests made by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Kolkata Special Task Force (STF) in the last few months show the movement of terror modules in the state. Also Read | Dasara festivities begin in Mysuru amid COVID-19 restrictions According to the NIA, these terror operatives use the porous Bangladesh border to enter the country. The alert issued by the state home department asked Durga puja organisers to set up systems to monitor crowd movement. They have been asked to install CCTV cameras and watch towers in the vicinity of puja pandals and work in close coordination with the local police station. The notice also mentioned that immersion of all idols have to be completed between October 15 (Dashami) and October 18 in consultation with local police stations. "In the context of the prevailing threats from divisive and terrorist groups to destabilise the country and to create law-and-order problems, you are advised to exercise utmost vigilance during the celebration of the festivals," the statement read. It further suggested, "The community puja organizers should be asked to engage adequate numbers of volunteers in Puja pandals to keep vigil on the movement of suspicious persons and all the volunteers should be directed to keep in touch with local police constantly." Also Read | No Indian plans to participate in SCO anti-terror exercises in Pakistan "The state government's effort to involve the puja committees in the security mechanism is a significant development. It shows that the state home department is planning for a wider safety and security chain which in itself is conclusive enough to understand the importance and the possibility of an attack," a senior official of the state home department said. The NIA arrested Aal Halif alias Abu Ibrahim - one of the most dreaded IS handlers in this subcontinent from Bengaluru in 2020. This IS handler was a meritorious student of economics before his entry into the terror world. Halif disguised as Sujit Chandra Debnath was working as an assistant of a mason in Bengaluru. Similarly, Kolkata STF - the elite Kolkata Police force arrested three JMB handlers - Naziur Rahman Pavel, Mikail Khan and Rabiul Islam - who sneaked into the India and were residing in the posh residential area of the city. To avoid detection, Pavel used the Hindu name Jayram Bepari. He and Mekail Khan alias Sheikh Sabbir befriended two Hindu women in the Haridevpur area and had planned to get married. This would have helped them recruit more people without arousing suspicion. These are not isolated examples but there are several other instances when the terror handlers have been using religion as a tool to fox the investigators. "Religion is no more a taboo for the terror groups rather they are using it as a tool to hide their identity. Changing religion is no more an important thing for these handlers rather they are using it effectively to dodge surveillance," a senior Kolkata Special Task Force Officer (STF) said. Another factor that is keeping the police and the investigation agencies on the tenterhooks is the lockdown and the subsequent unemployment which is making the work of these terror groups easier. Taking advantage of the porous border with Bangladesh and unemployment, international terror groups like JMB, Ansarullah Faction and even Islamic State are trying to spread their network in the state. The aim is to make West Bengal, the headquarters of the terror activities in entire eastern India. Sometimes through direct interaction and at times through online, they are targeting brainy but unemployed young boys and girls in the state. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Special Task Force (STF) of the Kolkata Police have secured this information from the three JMB terrorists who were arrested by the STF sleuths recently from a colony in the southern outskirts of Kolkata. The investigation officials are worried that because of systematic brainwashing by these terror groups many meritorious but unemployed youths are getting lost from mainstream society.

Bengal sounds terror alert during Durga Puja

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To provide a "cutting-edge technology to enhance India's counter-terror capabilities", Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to launch the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) soon, official sources said. &nbsp;

The final "synchronisation and testing" of the ambitious electronic database seems to be going on so that it can go live without any hiccups. It was mooted after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi, UK PM Boris Johnson recalls deadly 9/11 terror attacks

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Recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah indicated that NATGRID may finally see the light of day. It has been conceptualised as a seamless and secure database for information on terrorists, economic crimes and similar incidents. &nbsp;

During the 51st Foundation Day of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) on September 4, Shah said, "Had corona (COVID-19) not been there, the Prime Minister would have dedicated NATGRID to the country. I am hopeful that the Prime Minister will dedicate NATGRID to the country in some time."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-undertaking-maintenance-of-mauritius-coast-guards-patrol-vessel-412614" hreflang="en">India undertaking maintenance of Mauritius Coast Guard’s patrol vessel</a> &nbsp;

Envisaged as a robust mechanism to track suspects, the NATGRID can help in preventing terrorist attacks with real-time data and access to classified information like immigration, banking, individual taxpayers, air and train travels. &nbsp;

In 2008, the 26/11 terrorist siege in Mumbai exposed the deficiency that security agencies had no mechanism to look for vital information on a real-time basis. &nbsp;

In 2010, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) had given approval to the Rs 3,400-crore NATGRID project. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

To provide a "cutting-edge technology to enhance India's counter-terror capabilities", Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to launch the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) soon, official sources said.

To provide a "cutting-edge technology to enhance India's counter-terror capabilities", Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to launch the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) soon, official sources said. The final "synchronisation and testing" of the ambitious electronic database seems to be going on so that it can go live without any hiccups. It was mooted after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi, UK PM Boris Johnson recalls deadly 9/11 terror attacks × Recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah indicated that NATGRID may finally see the light of day. It has been conceptualised as a seamless and secure database for information on terrorists, economic crimes and similar incidents. During the 51st Foundation Day of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) on September 4, Shah said, "Had corona (COVID-19) not been there, the Prime Minister would have dedicated NATGRID to the country. I am hopeful that the Prime Minister will dedicate NATGRID to the country in some time." Also Read: India undertaking maintenance of Mauritius Coast Guard’s patrol vessel Envisaged as a robust mechanism to track suspects, the NATGRID can help in preventing terrorist attacks with real-time data and access to classified information like immigration, banking, individual taxpayers, air and train travels. In 2008, the 26/11 terrorist siege in Mumbai exposed the deficiency that security agencies had no mechanism to look for vital information on a real-time basis. In 2010, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) had given approval to the Rs 3,400-crore NATGRID project. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi to launch National Intelligence Grid soon to fight terror

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