Mumbai police are claiming that terrorists used Google Earth maps to plan their attack on the Indian city. Through investigation and the interrogation of one of the terrorists the police have determined that the terrorists used Google Earth imagery along with satellite phones and GPS systems to plan and coordinate the attack.
This latest incident which is being referred to as India’s 9/11 adds fuel to India’s long standing dislike of Google Earth. In 2005 the then Indian President Abdul Kalam warned that the ease of attaining highly detailed maps and satellite imagery could be used by terrorists to commit acts of terrorism.
Indian security agencies have voiced their opposition to the ability for Google Earth to expose sensitive areas. However, the areas attacked by terrorists last week feature only hotels, restaurants and a railway station and all these locations are available on printed maps.
Michael Reed
