New Delhi, Nov 12: Investigators probing the recent Red Fort car blast have uncovered that Dr. Muzammil Ganaie, one of the arrested accused linked to the busted ‘white-collar’ terror module, had carried out several reconnaissance missions around the Red Fort area in January 2025, officials said.
Analysis of dump data retrieved from Dr. Muzammil’s mobile phone revealed repeated visits to the monument during the first week of January. Police suspect the reconnaissance was part of a larger plot to target the Red Fort on Republic Day, which was averted due to enhanced security and patrolling at that time.
The revelation comes days after a high-intensity blast tore through a slow-moving car near the Red Fort on November 10, killing 12 people and injuring several others. The explosion occurred hours after police uncovered the module linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGH), arresting eight people, including three doctors.
Officials said the module operated across Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, and over 2,500 kilograms of ammonium nitrate, potassium chlorate, and sulphur were seized during the raids.
According to forensic experts from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), around 40 samples have been collected from the blast site, including two cartridges, live ammunition, and residues of two different explosives. Preliminary tests indicate one of the materials to be ammonium nitrate, while the second explosive is believed to be “more powerful,” pending detailed analysis.
A senior officer said Dr. Muzammil, along with Dr. Umar Nabi—an assistant professor at Al-Falah University and suspected to have been driving the explosive-laden car—had made multiple visits to the Red Fort area to study security arrangements and crowd density. Their movements were corroborated using CCTV footage and tower location data.
Meanwhile, investigations led to the detention of Maulvi Ishtiyaq, a preacher from Mewat, Haryana, whose rented accommodation inside Al-Falah University yielded the massive 2,500 kg explosive haul. He is the ninth person detained and is likely to be formally arrested soon.
In the wake of the blast, Delhi Police have intensified security checks across the capital. Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at all entry and exit points, including Ghazipur, Singhu, Tikri, and Badarpur borders. Random vehicle inspections are being conducted at markets, metro stations, railway terminals, and bus stands.
“All district units and specialised wings have been instructed to stay on high alert and increase patrolling in crowded areas,” a senior officer said, adding that sniffer dogs, metal detectors, and anti-sabotage teams are deployed at sensitive locations to maintain public confidence and ensure safety. (Agencies)
