Delhi blast: Ammonium nitrate, fuel oil, explosive detonators used
What's the story
Initial investigations into the deadly car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort have revealed the use of ammonium nitrate, fuel oil, and detonators, News18 reported. The blast on Monday evening killed nine people and injured 20 others. The explosion occurred in a moving Hyundai i20 car at a busy traffic signal near the Red Fort Metro Station.
Legal action
FIR filed under UAPA
The Delhi Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act. The FIR was filed at Kotwali Police Station under Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA, which deal with punishment and conspiracy for terror acts. The investigation is ongoing with multiple raids across Delhi as part of a terror probe, with the national capital being on high alert.
Investigation leads
Suspect's residence in Faridabad linked to blast
The investigation has also linked the blast to a suspect's residence in Faridabad, where around 360kg of suspected ammonium nitrate and arms were recovered. The suspect, Mohammad Umar, is believed to be part of a larger network. Eyewitnesses described the explosion as deafening with body parts scattered near the blast site.
Ownership trail
Ownership of vehicle being traced
The police are also tracing the ownership of the vehicle involved in the blast. The car was sold multiple times before reaching its final owner, Mohd Salman. Security has been tightened across Delhi with high alert status at airports, railway stations, and bus terminals. No terror outfit has claimed responsibility for the attack yet as investigations continue.
Aftermath measures
Eyewitnesses describe panic after explosion
Eyewitnesses recounted chaos and panic after the blast, with one saying, "We were dumbfounded." Chandni Chowk market will remain closed on Tuesday as a precautionary measure. The market president, Sanjay Bhargaw, said his shop shook from the impact of the explosion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences over the deaths in this tragic incident.