Washington, Dec 04: The FBI is assisting Indian
investigative agencies in collecting evidence in the aftermath
of the Mumbai attacks, the US attorney general has said as he
insisted that his country has the jurisdiction to prosecute the
terrorist captured during the deadly strikes.
Michael Mukasey dubbed as "horrendous" the terror attacks
which killed nearly 200 people, including six Americans.
"Investigation is on the ground to assist Indian
authorities. The FBI is looking into whatever evidence they can
get," the top legal official who will be succeeded by Eric
Holder in the incoming Barack Obama administration, said.
Asked about the captured gunman, Mukasey said "I believe
we have jurisdiction" but declined to comment on the likelihood
of eventual indictments in the United States.
He said the attack has given an "object lesson" on the
need for continued vigilance including keeping an eye on
suspected terror outfits.
Mukasey also said he did not believe the US was more
vulnerable to a terrorist attack during the presidential
transition period, although security will be heavy for
the President-elect inauguration.
"Terrorists will strike when they feel the moment is
right, not according to the political calendar," he said. The
United States has "all of the surveillance techniques we need
to keep us safe," Mukasey added.
Bureau Report
First Published: Thursday, December 04, 2008, 00:00