India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a man believed to have played a role in planning the recent car bombing near the iconic Red Fort in Delhi. The attack, which occurred last week, resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people and left over 30 injured. The suspect is a resident of India-administered Kashmir, where the vehicle involved in the attack was registered.
Investigators have identified the alleged suicide bomber as a resident of the Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir. He died in the explosion when the vehicle he was driving detonated at a traffic light. The NIA has also seized another vehicle linked to him. Authorities revealed that the bomber worked as an assistant professor at Al Falah University in Faridabad, located in the National Capital Region of Delhi.
On Wednesday, as details emerged about the attackers’ ties to Al Falah University, the institution’s management stated that they had “no connection with the said persons apart from them working in their official capacities with the University,” according to News18. The NIA continues to investigate the incident and has interviewed more than 70 witnesses while seeking additional individuals who may have information about the bombing.
Chaos Erupts in Central Delhi
The explosion occurred near the Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, a historic monument that symbolizes India’s independence. This area, a popular tourist destination characterized by bustling bazaars and street vendors, was thrown into disarray following the blast. Eyewitness accounts revealed scenes of devastation, with thick orange flames engulfing the night sky and debris scattered across the streets.
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha reported that the vehicle, described as “slow-moving,” came to a stop at a red light around 18:42 local time before the explosion took place. “An explosion occurred in that vehicle. The passengers in the vehicle and people in surrounding vehicles were impacted,” Golcha stated.
In the aftermath, at least six vehicles and three autorickshaws were set ablaze. Emergency services received a call about the incident at 18:55 local time and promptly extinguished the ensuing fire, according to Sumit Kumar from Delhi fire services. Survivors were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The shocking nature of this attack, especially in a city with over 30 million people, has raised concerns about security in one of the world’s largest urban areas. Investigators are working diligently to uncover the full extent of the planning and execution behind this tragic event.
The NIA’s ongoing investigation underscores the severity of the situation as authorities aim to bring those responsible to justice.
