Mumbai 'scout' suspects in court

Last month's attacks left more than 170 people dead

Two suspected Islamist militants have appeared in court in Mumbai amid an investigation into whether they scouted for those who attacked the city.

Indian nationals Fahim Ansari and Sabauddin were transferred from Uttar Pradesh state, where they are being held in separate cases.

The magistrate gave Mumbai (Bombay) police custody until 31 December.

Fahim Ansari was arrested early this year allegedly carrying maps with details of Mumbai landmarks.

Last month's attacks left more than 170 people dead.

Separately, Pakistan has summoned a senior Indian diplomat to protest against an alleged airspace violation by India amid the heightened tension.

India blames the Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) for the Mumbai attacks. The group and the Pakistani government both deny any involvement.

Written protest

Fahim Ansari and Sabauddin both had their heads covered as they appeared before a magistrate amid tight security in Mumbai.

Police are also still questioning survivor Mohammed Ajmal Amir Qasab

They confirmed their identity and were remanded into Mumbai police custody for questioning.

Police say that Fahim Ansari was a trained member of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Sabauddin his accomplice.

The pair were detained in February in connection with an attack on a police camp in Rampur that left seven paramilitaries and one civilian dead. Charges have yet to be framed in that case and no pleas have yet been entered.

Additional police commissioner Deven Bharti told Reuters news agency: "They are members of LeT and we are looking for further information on that, and whether there are any more local linkages to the Mumbai attacks."

Police say Fahim Ansari had hand-drawn maps of key Mumbai landmarks, some of which were hit in the attacks that started on 26 November.

The thoroughness of the raid has led to speculation there was local help in its preparation.

Mumbai police are also still questioning the sole surviving gunman from the attack - named as Mohammed Ajmal Amir Qasab.

His next court appearance is scheduled for 24 December.

Separately, Pakistan has summoned India's deputy high commissioner, Manpreet Vohra, and delivered a written protest over alleged intrusions into Pakistan airspace by Indian fighter aircraft.

Islamabad says the Indian fighter jets "inadvertently" crossed into Pakistani airspace over the disputed territory of Kashmir and Punjab province last Saturday.

India's air force insists there has been no violation.