The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has uncovered critical details in the ongoing probe into the Red Fort blast, including the purchase of an AK-47 rifle by accused Muzammil for Rs 6.5 lakh. This weapon was later found with co-accused Adil. The investigation has now broadened to expose a sophisticated, “white-collar” terror module with connections extending across multiple states, painting a grim picture of organized terror activities.
Intelligence reports indicate a clear command structure, with Muzammil operating under handler Mansoor and Umar reporting to Hashim. Both handlers were allegedly directed by Ibrahim, a senior operative coordinating regional operations. This hierarchical setup points to a well-structured and potentially foreign-backed terror network.
Significantly, the investigation has revealed foreign links. In 2022, Muzammil, Adil, and Muzaffar traveled to Turkey on the instructions of Okasa, an operative associated with the Pakistan-based Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP). Their mission was to gain access to Afghanistan but was called off when their contact failed to materialize. Their operational communication with Okasa utilized a Telegram ID, indicating the use of secure digital platforms.
Details also show Umar’s radicalization through online materials on explosives. He procured components from markets in Nuh, Bhagirath Palace, and Faridabad’s NIT Market. The NIA is withholding technical details for security reasons. The agency has taken four key accused—Dr. Muzammil Ganaie, Adeel Rather, Shaheen Shahid, and Maulvi Irfan Ahmed Wagay—into 10-day custody. They were initially arrested by Jammu & Kashmir Police for their alleged involvement in the wider terror network.
The devastating blast on November 10th, which killed 15 individuals, involved a car driven by Dr. Umar un Nabi, who allegedly used a false name to purchase the vehicle. The probe has also identified Jasir Bilal Wani, who was approached to be a suicide bomber. The recovery of 2,900 kg of explosives the day before the attack underscores the magnitude of the plot. The NIA is diligently pursuing leads related to international communication, funding, and cross-border coordination, anticipating further arrests in this sprawling conspiracy.
