Delhi Blast: AK-47 Bought for ₹5 Lakh, Explosives Stored in Deep Freezer

The investigation into the November 10 suicide car bomb attack has unveiled an extensive international terror network, highlighting key suspects and their planning strategies. Intelligence agencies are working to trace financial channels and handlers linked to the attackers.

Intelligence agencies are delving into the November 10 terror attack has uncovered a wider international terror network, ANI reported.

The attack involved a suicide car bomb near the Red Fort, killing 15 and injuring several others. Dr. Umar Nabi drove the explosive-laden vehicle. Four main suspects, including Dr. Muzammil Shakeel Gan from Pulwama and Dr. Adeel Ahmed Rather from Anantnag, are in National Investigation Agency (NIA) custody.

Investigators have identified that each suspect in the module had a distinct handler. Muzammil and Umar reported to different handlers, while two key figures, Mansoor and Hashim, operated under a senior handler overseeing the module's activities. These handlers worked in a layered structure, according to an official statement.

Coordinated Attack Plans Uncovered

The module was planning multi-location attacks, intending to store explosives at various sites. Intelligence sources have confirmed that the materials and digital evidence point to a well-coordinated plan for simultaneous strikes. A senior intelligence official noted the strong evidence supporting this assessment.

Details about Muzammil's activities have emerged, including his procurement of an AK-47 for over Rs 5 lakh. The weapon was found in Adeel's locker, highlighting the module's financing and preparation. This purchase is a significant link in understanding the terror group's operations, an intelligence source mentioned.

International Connections and Financial Channels

In 2022, Muzammil, Adeel, and another suspect, Muzaffar Ahmad, travelled to Turkey under the guidance of Okasa, a Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) associate. They were to be routed to Afghanistan, but the plan fell through after a week-long wait, as per sources. Muzammil communicated with Okasa through a Telegram ID, with discussions intensifying when Muzammil inquired about his handler.

Umar had been researching bomb-making online, acquiring chemicals from Nuh and electronic parts from local markets. He bought a deep freezer to stabilise and process explosive compounds. This equipment was crucial for preparing the explosive mixture, a source revealed.

Internal Conflicts and Legal Developments

A serious altercation between Muzammil and Umar occurred at Al-Falah University in Faridabad, witnessed by several students. Following the dispute, Umar handed over his red EcoSport car, already containing explosives, to Muzammil. This conflict has been a focal point for investigators.

While the investigation continues to identify broader networks, financial channels, and international handlers, legal proceedings are also underway. The Delhi High Court recently denied permission for co-accused Jasir Bilal Wani to meet his lawyer at the NIA headquarters, as Wani remains in the NIA's custody.

With inputs from ANI