RCMP Confirms Identity of 'Mr. X' Linked to Kanishka Bombing
As the 40th anniversary of the tragic Air India Flight 182 bombing approaches, Canadian authorities have identified a previously unknown suspect referred to as "Mr. X," who assisted in testing the bomb weeks before the devastating incident. However, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have chosen not to disclose his name, citing privacy laws, even though the individual has since passed away.
The Bombing That Shook Nations
On June 23, 1985, Air India Flight 182, known as the Kanishka, was en route from Montreal to Mumbai with a scheduled stopover in London when a bomb detonated mid-air off the coast of Ireland. The catastrophic explosion claimed the lives of 329 people, including 307 passengers and 22 crew members, marking one of the deadliest terrorist attacks involving an aircraft.
New Developments Ahead of the 40th Anniversary
Speaking in Ireland during a Canadian delegation's visit for the anniversary, RCMP Assistant Commissioner David Teboul revealed the breakthrough in identifying "Mr. X." He acknowledged that the suspect died without facing charges and, therefore, will remain anonymous in accordance with privacy regulations.
Unraveling 'Mr. X's' Role in the Plot
The investigation into the bombing has spanned decades. Despite the acquittal of two major suspects in 2005, law enforcement continued to probe the case to resolve remaining questions. This persistent effort led to uncovering the identity of this elusive figure.
On June 4, 1985, "Mr. X" traveled to Duncan, British Columbia, alongside Talwinder Singh Parmar, the mastermind behind the bombing. They were accompanied by electrician Inderjit Singh Reyat. Together, they ventured into the woods to test the explosive device, unaware they were being monitored by agents from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS). The agents heard an explosion but misinterpreted the sound as a gunshot.
Connections to Known Terrorists
Talwinder Singh Parmar, founder of the Babbar Khalsa International, was killed in a police encounter in Punjab in 1992. Inderjit Singh Reyat pled guilty to aiding both Parmar and "Mr. X" in constructing the bomb, though he testified that he did not know "Mr. X's" actual identity.
Continuing the Quest for Closure
This recent revelation shines new light on one of Canada’s darkest moments, yet the reluctance to disclose "Mr. X's" name leaves some questions unanswered. Privacy laws and the deceased status of the suspect have shaped RCMP’s decision, balancing legal obligations with the public’s interest.
Still, the painstaking ongoing work of investigators underscores Canada’s commitment to bringing clarity and justice to the victims and their families four decades after the tragedy.
