Security forces on Friday carried out a controlled demolition of the Pulwama residence of Dr Umar Nabi, the key suspect in Monday’s Red Fort car blast that killed 13 people and injured over 20. Officials said the house was destroyed using an improvised explosive device (IED) as part of the ongoing investigation.
The demolition was conducted during the intervening night of Thursday and Friday.
DNA Confirms Identity
Investigators confirmed Umar’s identity after DNA samples from the blast site matched those of his mother. Officials linked Umar to the explosive-laden Hyundai i20 that detonated near Red Fort, and believe he was driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.
His exact role in the wider plot is still being examined.
Raids, Arrests and Wider Network
Following the explosion, Jammu and Kashmir Police launched overnight raids, arresting six people, including three family members of Dr Umar.
Investigators say Umar was in frequent touch with two Kashmiri doctors arrested earlier in connection with the Faridabad terror module, during which authorities seized 2,900 kg of explosives.
Officials also revealed that Umar once considered an academically gifted doctor in his community — had gradually drifted toward radical ideology over the past two years, joining multiple encrypted extremist channels online.
Encrypted Apps, Cash Handling and Chemical Purchases
According to security agencies:
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Umar, Dr Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie, and Dr Shaheen Shahid used Threema, a Switzerland-based encrypted app, to plan and coordinate their activities.
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Umar also created a small Signal group with a few trusted members to manage operational details.
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The group raised ₹26 lakh, which was handed over to Umar to finance the plot.
Investigators say the money was used to purchase 26 quintals of NPK fertiliser valued around ₹3 lakh from suppliers in Gurugram, Nuh and nearby districts. When mixed with other chemicals, NPK becomes a core component for manufacturing IEDs.
Plan to Strike Multiple Cities
Sources told PTI that the module had eight suspects, who were preparing to split into pairs and carry out coordinated blasts across four cities.
The investigation is ongoing.
