Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray embarked on a two-day visit to India, poised to engage with top Indian security officials on pivotal bilateral issues. The discussions are set to encompass the alleged attempt to murder designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and his potential extradition, along with the pending extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key figure linked to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
Wray’s visit extends beyond these individual cases, branching into the realm of international cybersecurity concerns, particularly addressing the cyber threats emanating from both state and non-state actors in China. His primary agenda on Monday was a strategic meeting with CBI Director Praveen Sood, focusing predominantly on cyber-related financial crimes.
The collaborative efforts against India-based cybercriminals targeting US citizens will also be a subject of discourse, with the possibility of unveiling new targeted operations. Building on the success of operations like Chakra-I and Chakra-II, which successfully dismantled numerous illicit cyber activities, the discussions aim to reinforce the joint efforts in combating cyber threats.
Wray is scheduled to engage with other key officials during his visit, including meetings with NIA Chief Dinkar Gupta and RAW Chief Ravi Sinha. Additionally, a visit to the Delhi Police Headquarters is on the agenda.
The extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-born businessman who played a role in reconnaissance and target recommendations for David Coleman Headley in the Mumbai attacks, is underscored as a priority. Notably, a US court had previously ordered the extradition of David Coleman Headley in May, although this request remains pending due to ongoing judicial processes in the US.
The visit by FBI Director Christopher Wray is emblematic of the robust cooperation between India and the United States in various domains, including security, cyber security, counter-terrorism, and counter-narcotics. The multifaceted collaboration extends to capacity-building programs, reaffirming the enduring nature of the bilateral partnership. This visit follows closely on the heels of a recent visit by US Principal Deputy NSA Jonathan Finer to Delhi, emphasizing the continuous dialogue and collaboration between the two nations on critical security matters.
