Red Fort blast: DNA confirms bomber was Umar; he was planning ‘spectacular terror attack’, Ayodhya was next target

The investigation into Monday’s car explosion near Red Fort in Delhi has revealed a major terror plot. Security agencies confirmed through DNA testing that the bomber was Umar Un Nabi, who had been planning to carry out a "spectacular terror attack" with multiple vehicle-borne IEDs followed by firing with assault rifles.

According to a report by TOI, Umar and his module had acquired three cars, a Hyundai i20, a red Ford Ecosport, and a Maruti Brezza, to carry out their plans.

While the i20 exploded near the Red Fort, police issued a nationwide alert (BOLO) for the remaining two vehicles. On Wednesday, the Ecosport, bearing a Delhi registration number ending in 0458, was tracked down in Faridabad, while a massive search operation is underway to locate the Brezza.

Plans to target Ayodhya

The probe has revealed that the group’s plans extended beyond Delhi. Investigators say the module was also preparing an attack in Ayodhya on November 25, coinciding with the ‘dhwajarohan’ (flag-hoisting) ceremony at the Ram temple, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to raise a saffron flag atop the temple’s spire.

According to the report, the group had collected a mix of ammonium nitrate and RDX, indicating the use of military-grade explosives.

However, forensic teams are still determining if the same combination was used in the car that exploded near Red Fort.

Plot hatched in Turkiye

Investigators believe the entire plan was conceived in Turkiye in 2022. Umar, who had medical training, allegedly received orders from his handler in Turkiye, known by the codename “Ukasa.” The Delhi Police and central intelligence agencies are now tracking possible links between Umar’s network and international terror outfits operating from the region.

Amit Shah chairs high-level security meet

Home Minister Amit Shah held multiple meetings with top security and intelligence officials on Wednesday, directing them to identify and arrest every person involved. “Everyone involved in this act will face the full wrath of our agencies,” Shah said in a post on X.

The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Delhi has been tasked with matching the DNA samples from the charred remains found in the i20 with those collected from Umar’s family in Jammu and Kashmir.

The NIA has been instructed to submit a preliminary report as soon as possible.