Pakistan Frees Nuke Scientist Khan From House Arrest

Admitted giving secrets to North Korea, Iran

By Nick McMaster, Newser Staff

Posted Feb 6, 2009 10:53 AM CST

(Newser) – The Pakistani scientist who admitted to giving nuclear secrets to rogue states was freed from house arrest today, the BBC reports. Abdul Qadir Khan was pardoned in 2004 but has remained under tight restrictions; the former head of Pakistan’s nuclear program can now leave his house and receive visitors. Khan said he “didn’t damn care” what the international community thought of his release.

“Let them talk,” said Khan, implicated in dealings with Iran, North Korea, and others. “I would be more worried about what you Pakistani journalists say about me, not what Bush says or what Dick Cheney says.” The scientist said he would use his freedom to focus on educational projects.

[Images (4)]

[Quotes (1)]

Disgraced Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan waves to media at his home in Islamabad today. (AP Photo)

The founder of Pakistan's nuclear program, Abdul Qadeer Khan, is seen in this undated file photo in Islamabad. (AP Photo)

Disgraced Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan, center, talks to media outside his home in Islamabad today. (AP Photo)

Disgraced Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan plays with his dog in his house in Islamabad today. (AP Photo)

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Are they happy with our God? Are they happy with our Prophet? Are they happy with our leaders? Never, so why should we bother what they say about us?
- Abdul Qadir Khan

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Pakistan Frees Nuke Scientist Khan From House Arrest