FBI assisting Mumbai terror probe; US has jurisdiction: AG

The FBI is assisting Indian investigative agencies in collecting evidence in the aftermath of the Mumbai attacks, the US attorney general has said as he insisted that his country has the jurisdiction to prosecute the terrorist captured during the deadly strikes.

Michael Mukasey dubbed as "horrendous" the terror attacks which killed nearly 200 people, including six Americans.

"Investigation is on the ground to assist Indian authorities. The FBI is looking into whatever evidence they can get," the top legal official who will be succeeded by Eric Holder in the incoming Barack Obama administration, said.

Asked about the captured gunman, Mukasey said "I believe we have jurisdiction" but declined to comment on the likelihood of eventual indictments in the United States.

He said the attack has given an "object lesson" on the need for continued vigilance including keeping an eye on suspected terror outfits.

Mukasey also said he did not believe the US was more vulnerable to a terrorist attack during the presidential transition period, although security will be heavy for the President-elect inauguration.

"Terrorists will strike when they feel the moment is right, not according to the political calendar," he said. The United States has "all of the surveillance techniques we need to keep us safe," Mukasey added.