Suspect’s photo released as Red Fort blast probe deepens
Agencies on Tuesday released the first photo of Dr Umar Mohammad, believed to be the mastermind behind the deadly explosion that struck near the Red Fort metro station in Delhi. The blast, which occurred on Monday evening, claimed eight lives and injured over 20.
Investigators are unsure whether Dr Mohammad died in the blast or is at large. They are scrutinising his last-known movements and possible links to a terror module.
Details of the explosion and forensic findings
The powerful explosion occurred in a white Hyundai i20 around 6:52 pm near Gate 1 of the Red Fort metro station. The car had three occupants.
According to forensic teams, the device used included a mix of ammonium nitrate, fuel oil and detonators. CCTV footage suggests the car was parked for over two hours near the site before the explosion. Investigators say they found no pellet or puncture injuries on victims, which could indicate a suicide or intent-detonation bomb.
Links to Faridabad explosive cache and terror network
The incident comes hours after authorities in Faridabad recovered about 360 kg of suspected ammonium nitrate and a cache of arms from a rented apartment linked to another doctor from Jammu & Kashmir. Police believe Dr Umar may belong to the same terror network and had earlier ties with that module.
Delays in confirming whether the suspect died in the blast and the complex ownership trail of the i20 are complicating the investigation. The vehicle changed hands multiple times and had been previously challaned for illegal parking.
Security response and wider implications
Following the explosion, Delhi was placed on high alert with major security deployments, additional checks at key transit hubs and monuments, and suspension of public access at the Red Fort site for the time being.
Senior government officials, including the Home Ministry, are coordinating the probe which is now being treated as an act of terrorism. Agencies have invoked sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act.
In a statement, a senior police officer said: “We are investigating all angles. We found three people in the car. The absence of pellet or puncture wounds suggests forced detonation.”