Abdul Rehman Makki Passes Away in Pakistan

Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, the deputy chief of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and brother-in-law of Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, reportedly succumbed to a heart attack in Lahore, Pakistan. According to news agency PTI, Makki had been undergoing treatment for high diabetes at a private hospital before his untimely demise.

Details Surrounding Makki’s Death

Makki’s health had been declining over the past few days. A JuD official disclosed that he suffered a cardiac arrest early Friday morning and later passed away at the hospital. Makki’s presence in the region had been significant due to his involvement in numerous incidents of terror financing.

Makki’s Criminal History and Role in Terror Activities

In May 2019, the Pakistan government arrested Makki and placed him under house arrest in Lahore. In 2020, he was convicted for terror financing and sentenced to six months imprisonment by an anti-terrorism court. Despite his low profile following the sentencing, his activities and affiliations remained noteworthy on the global stage.

UN Designation and Global Terrorist Status

In 2023, the United Nations designated Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist, resulting in an assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo. He was recognized as the head of the political affairs and foreign relations department for the militant organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and a member of JuD’s Central and proselytization teams. Makki had long been wanted by Indian authorities for his role in various attacks, including the infamous 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

Involvement in Notorious Attacks

Makki was pivotal in providing financing for the November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, an event that claimed the lives of 166 individuals and deeply impacted both the nation and the world. Beyond the Mumbai attacks, Makki’s involvement extended to the Red Fort attack in New Delhi, where six LeT terrorists stormed the iconic monument in December 2000, attacking security forces stationed there.

The Pakistan Mutahida Muslim League (PMML) expressed condolences following Makki’s death, highlighting his influence and advocacy for the Pakistan ideology across the nation.