Faridabad Raid Uncovers Terror Module Linked to Red Fort Blast

Hindustan Times
Faridabad Raid Uncovers Terror Module Linked to Red Fort Blast - Article illustration from Hindustan Times

Image source: Hindustan Times website

A recent operation by security agencies in Haryana's Faridabad successfully dismantled a terror module linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind. The investigation followed a connection to a deadly car explosion near Red Fort, with key suspect Dr. Umar Nabi believed to be the driver of the vehicle. Authorities recovered nearly 3,000 kg of explosives during the raids, indicating a potential larger conspiracy aimed at coordinated attacks across India. The National Investigation Agency is now leading the investigation into the Red Fort incident.

In a significant operation conducted by security agencies in Haryana's Faridabad from November 8 to 10, authorities dismantled a so-called 'white-collar terror module' linked to two militant organizations: Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH). The crackdown led to the recovery of nearly 3,000 kg of explosives, including detonators, timers, and bomb-making materials. Dr. Umar Nabi, a suspect with ties to the thwarted network, is believed to be connected to the recent explosion of a Hyundai i20 car near the Red Fort, which resulted in at least 10 fatalities.

Dr. Nabi, a doctor from Pulwama employed at Al-Falah Hospital in Faridabad, reportedly drove the vehicle involved in the blast. Investigators indicated that the joy of the raids concerning his accomplices instigated a sense of panic in Dr. Nabi, prompting him to act hastily. CCTV footage has confirmed his presence at the explosion site, further linking him to this tragic incident.

The investigation traces its origins back to October 19, when police in Jammu and Kashmir first discovered propagandist posters linked to JeM. As further inquiries unfolded, several arrests were made, leading to significant discoveries of arms and explosives. Notably, on November 10, law enforcement seized over 2,500 kg of explosives from various locations, primarily connected to members of the same sleeper cell.

The explosive device utilized in the Red Fort incident is thought to have detonated prematurely due to Dr. Nabi's apprehension stemming from ongoing raids. Forensic analysis has confirmed a match between the explosives used in the blast and those confiscated in Faridabad. Officials speculate that Dr. Nabi may have intentionally or inadvertently set off the bomb while attempting to evade capture.

Authorities assert that the recent operations effectively dismantled a larger conspiracy aimed at executing coordinated attacks across India. The investigation surrounding the Red Fort blast is now under the jurisdiction of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which aims to further probe Dr. Nabi's involvement and uncover any remaining threats posed by the terror network.

Share this article