Red Fort Blast: Suspect’s family detained as investigators probe Faridabad terror link, says sources

Could the Red Fort explosion that killed 9 people be linked to a Faridabad terror module as investigators detain Dr Umar Mohammad’s mother and two brothers while probing ammonium nitrate and digital traces used in the attack?

New Delhi: Authorities have detained the mother and two brothers of Dr Umar Mohammad, suspected of involvement in the Red Fort blast. Police are taking DNA samples from the family as part of the ongoing investigation. Umar, who owns the white Hyundai i20 used in the explosion, reportedly panicked and triggered the blast after two key members of his terror module, Dr Mujammil Shakeel and Dr Adil Rather, were arrested and explosives seized in recent operations.

Investigators believe Umar planned the attack with two associates and had planted a detonator in the vehicle. Ammonium nitrate recovered from Faridabad, known for its potential use in bomb-making, was reportedly used in the blast.

Blast Sparks Panic in Delhi

A massive explosion occurred near Delhi’s Red Fort at around 6:52 p.m. on Monday, killing nine people and injuring 24 others. The blast caused widespread panic in the crowded Chandni Chowk area and damaged several vehicles. Delhi Police and other agencies are treating the incident as a terrorist attack and have registered a case under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

CCTV Footage Shows Suspect

CCTV footage shows a white Hyundai i20 leaving a parking lot just before the explosion, with a masked man inside, believed to be Dr Umar Mohammad. Investigators note that Umar remained inside the car for nearly three hours before the blast, suggesting he was awaiting instructions on the precise timing and location of the attack.

Delhi Red Fort blast linked to Faridabad terror network? Key updates from sources

Faridabad Module Under Investigation

Authorities are now linking the Red Fort blast to a terror module operating out of Faridabad. In recent operations, police seized around 2,900 kilograms of ammonium nitrate across Faridabad and Lucknow, strengthening suspicions that the same network was behind this attack.

The vehicle used in the explosion had changed ownership multiple times, initially owned by a man named Salman, then sold to Devendra, and later acquired by Tariq from Pulwama. DNA tests are being conducted to confirm if the body recovered from the car belongs to Dr Umar Mohammad.

First image of Delhi blast suspect Umar Mohammad emerges; NIA and NSG join investigation

Joint Multi-Agency Investigation

The National Investigation Agency, National Security Guard, Delhi Police, and other agencies are coordinating the investigation. Authorities are examining digital evidence, forensic samples, and DNA reports to uncover the full scope of the module involved. Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the attack and assured that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.

Security Implications in the Capital

The blast highlights major security concerns in Delhi. Umar Mohammad’s careful planning, remaining inside the car for hours before detonating, indicates a premeditated terror operation. Authorities continue to investigate the network and potential connections to ensure no further attacks occur.