The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has disclosed that one of the accused in the Red Fort blast case had visited Lucknow and planned to carry out explosions at key locations in the city. The revelation came during the ongoing investigation into the 2021 Red Fort blast, which occurred on Republic Day.
Accused's Activities in Lucknow
According to NIA officials, the accused, identified as Mohammad Asif, traveled to Lucknow in early 2021 and conducted reconnaissance of several crowded areas, including Hazratganj market, Lucknow Railway Station, and the Vidhan Sabha building. The agency stated that Asif intended to target these locations to create maximum casualties and panic.
NIA's Findings
The NIA, in its charge sheet, mentioned that Asif was in constant touch with other co-conspirators via encrypted messaging apps. He also procured materials for making explosives from a local supplier in Lucknow. The agency has recovered incriminating evidence, including digital devices and explosive residue, from a hideout used by Asif in the city.
Further investigations revealed that Asif had planned to execute the attacks in Lucknow after the Red Fort incident, but was arrested before he could carry them out. The NIA has charged him under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.
Security Measures Tightened
Following the NIA's revelations, security has been beefed up at all potential targets in Lucknow. Police have increased patrolling and deployed additional personnel at sensitive locations. The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad is also assisting in the investigation to identify any local sleeper cells.
Background of the Case
The Red Fort blast on January 26, 2021, during the Republic Day celebrations, had sent shockwaves across the nation. The explosion, which occurred near the main entrance of the historic fort, injured several people. The NIA took over the investigation and has so far arrested multiple suspects linked to the case.
The agency believes that the conspiracy was hatched by a terror module with links to Pakistan-based handlers. The accused had undergone training in handling explosives and were instructed to target high-profile events and government installations.
Legal Proceedings
The accused is currently in judicial custody and is scheduled to appear before a special NIA court next week. The agency is seeking further remand to unearth the entire network and prevent any future attacks.
The NIA has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected in the coming days.
