Investigators probing the devastating blast near Delhi's Red Fort metro station have uncovered a sophisticated white-collar terror network with links to educational institutions and a trail of suspicious vehicles. The explosion in an explosive-laden Hyundai i20 car on Monday evening claimed 12 lives and left numerous others injured.
Prime Minister's Response and Hospital Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the injured victims at LNJP Hospital on Wednesday, expressing solidarity with the affected families. In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister declared: "Went to LNJP Hospital and met those injured during the blast in Delhi. Praying for everyone's quick recovery. Those behind the conspiracy will be brought to justice!"
The Hunt for Missing Red Ford EcoSport
Delhi Police has intensified its search for a red Ford EcoSport car believed to be connected to the blast case. Authorities issued a lookout notice after discovering that suspects associated with the explosive-laden Hyundai i20 also had access to the red vehicle.
At least five specialized police teams have been deployed to track down the missing car, with neighboring states of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana placed on high alert to assist in the massive search operation.
University Connections and White-Collar Terror Module
The investigation has revealed alarming connections to Al-Falah University in Faridabad. The suspected driver of the explosive vehicle, Dr Mohammad Umar Nabi from Pulwama, served as an assistant professor at the institution.
Police have arrested two other university-affiliated doctors - Dr Muzammil Ganaie and Dr Shaheen Sayeed - in connection with the terror attack. The blast occurred hours after authorities had apprehended eight individuals and seized a massive cache of 2,900 kg of explosives, exposing a well-organized "white-collar terror module" linked to banned organizations Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind operating across Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
University's Official Response
Al-Falah University has distanced itself from the arrested individuals, with Vice Chancellor Bhupinder Kaur Anand releasing an official statement clarifying the institution's position. "We wish to make it clear that the University has no connection with the said persons apart from them being working in their official capacities with the University," the statement read.
The university vehemently denied storing or handling any hazardous materials on campus, emphasizing that their laboratories are used exclusively for academic purposes with strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory standards.
Car Dealer Detained in Investigation
In a significant development, Delhi Police's special cell has detained Amit, a Faridabad-based car dealer and owner of Royal Car Plaza, for his alleged role in facilitating the sale of the Hyundai i20 used in the explosion. Investigators are questioning Amit to trace the complete ownership chain of the vehicle and determine how it reached the primary suspects.
Authorities are particularly focused on establishing the connection between Dr Umar Nabi and the car dealer, seeking to unravel the entire network behind the acquisition of vehicles used in the terror operation.
The investigation continues to unfold as security agencies work round-the-clock to dismantle what appears to be a highly sophisticated terror network operating under the guise of professional respectability.
