Delhi Red Fort Blast: Fidayeen Attack Planned After Faridabad Module Busted — What Initial Probe Reveals
A high-intensity explosion ripped through a car near the Red Fort in Delhi on Monday evening, prompting a massive investigation and raising concerns about a potential terror attack. Initial investigations suggest the blast may have been a "fidayeen" (suicide) attack linked to a recently busted terror module in Faridabad. The incident, which occurred around 6:52 pm near the Red Fort Metro Station, resulted in at least 12 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Sources indicate that the suspect planned the attack after learning about the dismantling of the Faridabad terror module. The swift action by law enforcement in Faridabad may have triggered a premature execution of the Red Fort plot. All investigative agencies are exploring various angles to determine the precise motive.
The explosion involved a Hyundai i20 car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station. The impact gutted several vehicles and caused extensive damage. Twenty people were injured and rushed to LNJP Hospital. The area, known for being heavily crowded, amplified the severity of the incident.
According to sources, the explosive material was planted inside the car and deliberately triggered. An absconding terror suspect, Dr. Umar Mohammad, may have been in the vehicle. Authorities are conducting DNA tests to confirm if the deceased individual in the car was indeed Umar, a key operative of the Faridabad module who had been on the run for months.
The recovery of approximately 2,900 kg of explosives from a Kashmiri doctor's residence in Faridabad hours before the blast has deepened suspicions of a coordinated terror plot. Investigators are closely examining the timing and nature of the Red Fort attack in light of these findings. Preliminary findings suggest that ammonium nitrate, fuel oil, and detonators may have been used in the explosion.
CCTV footage has emerged, reportedly showing Dr. Mohammad Umar driving the Hyundai i20 shortly before the explosion. The footage shows the car entering a parking lot near Sunehri Masjid and leaving moments before the blast. The suspect's face is initially visible but later obscured by a mask.
Delhi Police have registered an FIR under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act. Multiple locations are being raided, and at least 13 suspects are being interrogated. The National Security Guard (NSG) and forensic experts are assisting in the investigation.
The incident has prompted heightened security measures in Delhi, with strict vigilance at airports, railway stations, and bus terminals. Union Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level security review meeting to assess the situation.
