26/11 terror attack mastermind Rehman Makki dies in Pakistan

Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki, the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and the deputy chief of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), passed away in Lahore on Friday after suffering a heart attack. He was the brother-in-law of JuD chief Hafiz Saeed.

Makki, who had been unwell for several days, was undergoing treatment for severe diabetes at a private hospital in Lahore. A Jamaat-ud-Dawa official confirmed the news, stating, "Makki suffered a cardiac arrest early this morning and breathed his last in the hospital."

In 2020, Makki was convicted by an anti-terrorism court and sentenced to six months' imprisonment for terror financing. Following his release, he maintained a low profile and avoided public appearances.

Earlier this year, in January 2023, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) designated Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist. This designation subjected him to an asset freeze, a travel ban, and an arms embargo under the UN sanctions regime.

Makki had long been accused of fundraising and supporting militant activities under the guise of Jamaat-ud-Dawa’s operations. His death comes as Pakistan faces international scrutiny over its handling of individuals and organizations linked to terrorism.