Yakub Memon: The Convicted Terrorist Financier
A Life of Financial Deceit and Terrorist Involvement
Yakub
Abdul Razzaq Memon, a convicted terrorist financier, is notoriously known for his financial involvements in the 1993 Bombay bombings, one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Indian history. As the brother of one of the prime suspects, Tiger Memon, Yakub's role in funding and facilitating the bombings led to his eventual execution on July 30, 2015.
Early Life and Education
Born on July 30, 1962, in Mumbai, Yakub grew up in the Byculla neighborhood and attended Antonio D'Souza High School. He went on to complete a master's degree in Commerce at the Burhani College of Commerce and Arts. In 1986, he enrolled in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and became a chartered accountant in 1990.
A Successful Career Turned Criminal Enterprise
In 1991, Yakub founded the chartered accountancy firm Mehta & Memon Associates with his childhood friend Chetan Mehta. After parting ways, he established another firm, AR & Sons, named after his father. The firm's success earned him the "Best Chartered Accountant of the Year" award from the Memon community of Mumbai. He also founded the export company Tejrath International, which exported meat products to the Persian Gulf region and Middle East.
The 1993 Bombay Bombings
Yakub's financial expertise and resources enabled him to play a crucial role in the planning and execution of the 1993 Bombay bombings. He handled his brother Tiger's funds, financed the training of 15 youths who were sent to a secret location to learn handling arms and ammunition, purchased the vehicles used in the bombings, and stockpiled weapons.
Arrest and Conviction
The Indian Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Yakub in 2003, and after a prolonged legal battle, he was convicted of terrorism and sentenced to death. All his appeals and petitions for clemency were rejected, leading to his execution on July 30, 2015, at Nagpur Central Jail.
Personal Milestones and Key Life Events
- 1962: Born on July 30 in Mumbai
- 1990: Became a chartered accountant
- 1991: Founded Mehta & Memon Associates
- 1993: Financially assisted in the planning and execution of the Bombay bombings
- 2003: Arrested by the CBI
- 2015: Executed on July 30 at Nagpur Central Jail
Legacy and Impact
Yakub Memon's involvement in the 1993 Bombay bombings left an indelible mark on Indian history, perpetuating a culture of violence and terror. His financial expertise and resources enabled the execution of one of the deadliest terrorist attacks, claiming innocent lives and instilling fear in the hearts of many. His conviction and eventual execution serve as a reminder of the consequences of indulging in such heinous crimes.
FAQ
What was Yakub Memons role in the 1993 Mumbai bombings?
Yakub Memon was found guilty of being involved in the 1993 Mumbai bombings, a series of blasts that killed over 250 people and injured hundreds more.
What was Yakub Memons profession?
Before his involvement in the bombings, Memon was a chartered accountant by profession.
How was Yakub Memon caught?
Memon was arrested in 1994 in Kathmandu, Nepal, and was later extradited to India to face trial.
What was Yakub Memons sentence for the 1993 Mumbai bombings?
Memon was sentenced to death by hanging in 2007, and his appeal was rejected by the Supreme Court of India in 2013.
When was Yakub Memon executed?
Yakub Memon was executed by hanging on July 30, 2015, at the Nagpur Central Jail in India.