The deadly explosion that ripped through a vehicle near Delhi's Red Fort on November 10, 2025, claiming 13 lives, involved more than just ammonium nitrate. Forensic analysis has revealed a mixture of explosives, with triacetone triperoxide (TATP) being a key component in addition to ammonium nitrate.

Initial reports suggested the presence of ammonium nitrate, a chemical commonly used in fertilizers but also known to act as an oxidizer in explosives when mixed with other substances. Approximately 30 to 40 kg of ammonium nitrate was estimated to be present in the car. However, further investigation revealed the presence of TATP, a highly potent explosive material. According to media reports, investigators also asked forensic teams to check for traces of PETN, Semtex or RDX, and detonator components.

TATP is formed from a combination of several chemical compounds and contains oxygen, making it capable of detonation. The combination of ammonium nitrate and TATP likely formed an improvised explosive device (IED) with a detonator. Ammonium nitrate, easily accessible as a fertilizer, can be transformed into a powerful explosive when combined with fuel oil to create ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate-Fuel Oil).

The investigation into the source of the explosives has led authorities to Basai Meo village in Haryana's Nuh district and nearby areas of Faridabad, Gurugram, and Saharanpur. Investigators uncovered a complex network of fertilizer and ammonium nitrate purchases allegedly orchestrated by Dr. Umar Un Nabi and his associates from the Faridabad module over several months.

Dr. Umar Un Nabi, who was an assistant professor at Al Falah University in Haryana's Faridabad, was identified as the individual behind the wheel of the vehicle. DNA analysis confirmed his involvement in the attack.

Reportedly, the suspects pooled over Rs 26 lakh to procure materials for bomb-making. The group allegedly purchased around 26 quintals of NPK fertilizer worth approximately Rs 3 lakh from suppliers in Gurugram, Nuh, and nearby towns. The fertilizer, when mixed with other chemicals, is commonly used to manufacture IEDs.

In addition to the explosives, authorities recovered three 9mm cartridges from the blast site, two of which were live rounds.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to uncover the full extent of the terror network and bring all those involved to justice.