NIA Makes First Arrest in Red Fort Terror Blast Case
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made its first arrest in the Red Fort IED blast case, apprehending Kashmiri resident Amir Rashid Ali for allegedly providing crucial logistical support to the main accused. The development marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the terror attack that shook the national capital.
Court Grants 10-Day Custody for Investigation
On Monday, November 17, 2025, Principal and District Sessions Judge Anju Bajaj Chandna of Patiala House Court granted the NIA 10 days of custody of Amir Rashid Ali. The agency successfully argued that his remand was essential to uncover the complete conspiracy behind the devastating explosion that occurred outside the Red Fort Metro station on November 10.
According to the NIA's remand papers submitted to the court, Amir Rashid Ali played a pivotal role in facilitating the terror attack. The agency revealed that the explosive-laden Hyundai i20 car used in the blast was registered in Amir's name. Beyond vehicle provision, he allegedly arranged a safe house for Umar Nabi, the primary accused who reportedly drove the vehicle that exploded.
Details of the Terror Conspiracy Emerge
An NIA spokesperson provided chilling details about the conspiracy, stating that Amir had specifically traveled to Delhi to facilitate the purchase of the car that would later become a vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device. Forensic analysis has conclusively identified the deceased driver as Umar Nabi, a resident of Pulwama district who worked as an Assistant Professor in the General Medicine Department at Al Falah University in Faridabad.
The investigation has uncovered that Amir, hailing from Samboora in Pampore, conspired with Umar Nabi to execute the terror attack. The NIA described the blast's intensity and precision as deliberately designed to cause public alarm and panic while instilling fear among citizens. The agency emphasized that the act aimed to threaten and destabilize the nation's sovereignty and unity.
Forensic Evidence and Explosive Composition
Forensic analysis of the explosives used in the blast has confirmed the presence of a dangerous mixture containing ammonium nitrate and triacetone triperoxide (TATP). Initial findings from the Forensic Science Laboratory indicate that the car contained approximately 30-40 kg of ammonium nitrate, explaining the explosion's massive magnitude.
These findings have become crucial as investigators examine potential links between the Delhi blast and the Faridabad terror module. In related investigations, authorities have already seized 358 kg of ammonium nitrate along with other bomb-making materials, suggesting a broader terror network.
The NIA has indicated that Amir Rashid Ali will be taken to Kashmir for further investigation as the agency works to unravel the entire conspiracy network. The arrest comes after Jammu & Kashmir Police initially detained Amir from his Pampore home hours following the blast, with the NIA subsequently taking over the case.
