Investigators have made significant strides in the November 10 Red Fort blast case, revealing that accused Muzammil purchased an AK-47 rifle for a staggering Rs 6.5 lakh. This weapon was later discovered in the possession of co-accused Adil. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is now expanding its probe into a sophisticated, “white-collar” terror module operating across several Indian states.
The investigation indicates a clear hierarchy and foreign connections within the group. Muzammil was reportedly managed by a handler named Mansoor, while Umar reported to Hashim. Both of these handlers allegedly reported to a higher-up operative identified as Ibrahim, who was responsible for coordinating activities across different regions. This structure points to a well-organized and far-reaching conspiracy.
Further details have emerged about the group’s international links. In 2022, Muzammil, along with Adil and Muzaffar, traveled to Turkey under the direction of Okasa, an operative linked to the Pakistan-based Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP). Their objective was to secure passage to Afghanistan to meet a contact, but the plan was ultimately aborted when the contact refused to proceed after a week-long wait. Communications with Okasa were reportedly maintained through a Telegram ID, highlighting the use of encrypted channels for operational coordination.
Meanwhile, Umar was actively engaged in radicalization, consuming online content related to explosives. He procured necessary materials and electronic components from various markets, including those in Nuh, Bhagirath Palace, and Faridabad’s NIT Market. While the acquisition of these materials has been confirmed, specific details about their manufacturing methods remain undisclosed by authorities for security reasons. The NIA has taken Dr. Muzammil Ganaie, Adeel Rather, Shaheen Shahid, and Maulvi Irfan Ahmed Wagay into 10-day custody following their arrest by Jammu & Kashmir Police in connection with the wider terror module.
The Red Fort blast, which occurred on November 10th, tragically killed 15 people when an explosive device detonated inside a car near Gate No. 1. The vehicle was driven by Dr. Umar un Nabi, who also perished in the incident. He had allegedly purchased the car under a false name, connecting him directly to another accused already in custody. The NIA is diligently working to trace all individuals involved, from handlers and recruiters to financiers and facilitators, with more arrests anticipated as the investigation delves into international communication and funding networks.
