Investigators probing the deadly blast near Delhi’s Red Fort—which claimed 15 lives—have uncovered significant new details that point to a well-funded and deeply coordinated terror module. According to sources quoted by ANI, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has confirmed that one of the prime accused, Dr. Muzammil Shakeel, bought an AK-47 rifle for over ₹5 lakh, marking a crucial link in the case.
The weapon was later recovered from another suspect, Dr. Adeel Ahmed Rather, during the ongoing investigation. Officials say the discovery demonstrates the module’s high level of preparation, access to funds, and the existence of a wider operational chain.
Further revelations show that Shakeel had purchased a deep freezer specifically to store chemicals and prepare the explosive compound. Investigators believe the freezer played a key role in stabilising and processing the materials used to assemble the bomb.
The blast occurred in an i20 car near Red Fort, driven by Dr. Umar Nabi, who was carrying the explosive device at the time of the detonation. Along with Umar, four other primary accused—Dr. Muzammil Shakeel Ganai (Pulwama), Dr. Adeel Ahmed Rather (Anantnag), Dr. Shaheen Saeed (Lucknow), and Mufti Irfan Ahmad Wagay (Shopian)—have been arrested by the NIA.
Multiple Handlers and International Network
Investigators have revealed that each member of the module reported to different handlers, indicating a multi-layered chain of command. Two handlers—identified as Mansoor and Hashim—were functioning under a senior controller believed to be overseeing the operation.
The probe has also uncovered an international trail. In 2022, Muzammil, Adeel, and another accused, Muzaffar Ahmad, travelled to Turkey on the instructions of a man named Okasa, linked to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The trio was expected to be taken onward to Afghanistan, but the plan collapsed when the handler withdrew after several days.
Communication between Muzammil and Okasa took place through Telegram, and intensified after Muzammil sought clarity on his handler’s identity.
How the Bomb Was Prepared
Officials have stated that Umar learned to assemble the explosive device using online tutorials, videos, and manuals. The chemicals were sourced from Nuh, while electronic components were reportedly bought from Bhagirath Palace in Delhi and Faridabad’s NIT Market.
Internal Rift and Shift of Responsibility
The investigation also confirms reports of a dispute between Muzammil and Umar on the premises of Al-Falah University, reportedly over financial issues. The fight was witnessed by multiple students. Following the altercation, Umar handed over his red EcoSport, already containing explosive materials, to Muzammil.
Plan for Multiple Blasts
Intelligence inputs indicate the group had plans to stockpile explosives at various locations and execute simultaneous attacks across the region. According to a senior intelligence official, both the recovered materials and the digital evidence strongly support this theory.