Investigation Unveils Six-Stage Jaish-e-Mohammed Attack Plan in Delhi Blast

Post by : Raina Nasser

Recent findings from the probe into the Red Fort explosion have exposed a detailed six-stage terror strategy, aiming at various sites across Delhi on December 6, coinciding with the Babri Masjid demolition anniversary. Officials have confirmed the involvement of a Pakistan-linked Jaish-e-Mohammed terror cell, including the Hyundai i20 implicated in the blast on Monday evening.

A total of 32 cars—among them, a Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Maruti Swift Dzire, Ford EcoSport, and Hyundai i20—were earmarked for transporting explosives or executing bomb deliveries around Delhi. So far, four vehicles have been pinpointed for their obsolescence and multiple ownership transfers, complicating traceability.

The recovered Brezza was found at Al-Falah School of Medical Sciences and Research Centre in Faridabad, a significant operational base for the terror network. An abandoned Ford EcoSport, registration DL10 CK 0458, has led to the arrest of a young male suspect. The Dzire, apprehended as well, was found to have both an assault rifle and ammunition.

This tragic event was a result of a blast that claimed 13 lives, driven by explosives like ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO). Initial reports indicate that the explosion was prematurely detonated by Umar Mohammed, the main suspect, following the arrests of his associates—Adil Ahmad Rather, Mujammil Shakeel, and Shahina Saeed. Investigators recovered nearly 3,000 kg of explosives and firearms from locations in Faridabad and Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir.

According to the investigation, Umar Mohammed entered Delhi using the Hyundai i20 via the Badarpur border, intending to trigger the bomb inside the Red Fort's parking facility. However, with visitor access blocked, he opted for a busy intersection near the metro station to carry out the explosion. Authorities noted discussions about a Diwali attack on October 20, which ultimately did not occur.

Led by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the investigation has revealed a newly devised operative method—terrorists masquerading as professionals, such as doctors, to foster local trust and elude detection. CCTV footage showcased Rather posting endorsements for Jaish-e-Mohammed in Nowgam, Kashmir, leading to his arrest in Saharanpur and exposing the network's operations.

Several individuals linked to this terror cell were associated with Al-Falah University. The institution has unequivocally condemned these actions, clarifying that it had no further connections to the suspects aside from their professional ties, and reiterated its dedication to national safety.

This investigation emphasizes the shifting strategies of terror organizations, the looming danger of urban serial attacks, and the indispensable role of intelligence and law enforcement in thwarting significant terrorist threats.