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Arms Dealer Suspect Tied To Terrorism

Gary Fitleberg, December 30, 2003

Hemant S. Lakhani, an Indian-born British citizen, is being accused of supporting terrorists in a missile-smuggling plot also offered to deliver tanks, anti-aircraft guns, and a radioactive bomb" prosecutors stated after the 68 year-old man was indicted. Lakhani also offered to broker a deal for several tons of C-4 explosive according to the federal indictment. The suspected terrorist has been held without bail since his arrest in August following a sting operation.

Lakhani’s lawyer, Henry E. Klingerman, stated his client is no terrorist and has no history of illegal arms trafficking. Klingerman added that Lakhani had no ability to obtain a "dirty bomb" or the military equipment.

"Dirty bomb" is a term used by law enforcement officials to refer to an unconventional device designed to spread radioactive or chemical agents.

"The plot constituting the government’s case was conceived, planned and executed by government agents. Mr. Lakhani was set up by a paid informant and induced to participate," Klingerman declared.

Prosecutors say more than 150 covertly recorded conversations prove that Lakhani was trying to deal arms to terrorists.

One video taken minutes before Lakhani’s arrest shows him handling an anti-aircraft missile in a hotel near Newark airport, U.S. Atty. Christopher J. Christie stated. Christie added that Lakhani believed he was obtaining the weapon for a man representing a Somali terrorist group.

The shoulder fired missile was a fake, provided by undercover Russian agents working with the FBI.

Gary Fitleberg is a Political Analyst specializing in International Relations with emphasis on Middle East affairs.