Investigators probing the November 10 Red Fort blast have uncovered a far more elaborate terror operation than initially suspected. According to senior security officials, the attack was part of a multi-vehicle, multi-strike plot involving three doctors, all linked to Al-Falah University in Faridabad, and coordinated with overseas handlers.
The blast near Old Delhi’s Red Fort was triggered by Umar Un Nabi, whose identity was confirmed through DNA profiling. Umar allegedly led a small terror module of highly educated professionals who intended to carry out a “spectacular” coordinated attack using vehicle-borne IEDs followed by assault rifle gunfire.
Three Cars, One Plot
Investigators say the module procured three cars:
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Hyundai i20: the car that exploded near Red Fort
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Ford EcoSport (DL-10 CK-0458): later traced to Faridabad
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Maruti Suzuki Brezza: police have issued alerts amid concerns more explosives may be hidden
Officials believe Umar was the primary buyer of all three vehicles. A search is underway for the Brezza, raising fears that additional devices or explosive material may still be concealed.
Foreign Links and Encrypted Coordination
Probe agencies say the plan was hatched in Türkiye in 2022. Umar allegedly travelled to Ankara for two weeks, during which he reportedly received instructions from a Turkey-based handler codenamed “Ukasa.”
Encrypted chats recovered by investigators show the group initially used Telegram, before shifting to more secure platforms like Signal and Session for coordination, fund transfers and logistics.
Explosives Trail: Nearly 3,000 kg Seized
Searches in Faridabad and adjoining areas point to an extensive stockpile of explosives:
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The module had been collecting material since 2022
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Investigators estimate an initial accumulation of 350 kg
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Subsequent raids uncovered a much larger stash nearly 2,900 kg of ammonium nitrate, detonators and other components
These materials were reportedly shifted in batches to rented rooms in Dhauj and Fatehpur Taga.
University Connections: A White-Coat Terror Network
Both Umar and Dr. Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie served on the faculty of Al-Falah University. Muzammil, who taught MBBS students, is accused of:
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Conducting repeated reconnaissance of the Red Fort
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Arranging safehouses near campus
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Receiving and storing explosive consignments
The presence of the module inside a large medical college has widened the investigation to include colleagues, support staff, and anyone who may have helped with premises or vehicle procurement.
Wider Targets and Timeline
Beyond Delhi, investigators say the group explored potential strikes in:
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Ayodhya allegedly planned for November 25, coinciding with a ceremonial flag-hoisting at the Ram Temple
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Additional phases extending towards Republic Day 2026
Documents and interrogation details suggest a phased, multi-city operational plan.
How the Plot Unravelled
The breakthrough came after J&K Police action and forensic
leads that pointed to Faridabad. The subsequent seizures and Muzammil’s arrest triggered Umar’s panic. Officials say he remained on the move for over 16 hours before detonating the Hyundai i20 near Red Fort.
CCTV footage, toll-plaza logs and vehicle traces are now crucial in mapping the suspects’ final movements and identifying potential sleeper cells or accomplices.
What Investigators Recovered From the University-Linked Raids
Notebooks and Diaries
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Coded entries
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Frequent usage of the word “operation”
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Dates referencing November 8–12
Lists of 25–30 Names
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Several linked to Jammu & Kashmir, Faridabad and neighbouring districts
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Indicating a broader support network
Encrypted Communication Evidence
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Signal groups created by Umar
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Used by 2–4 members for coordination
Large Consignments of Explosive Material
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Ammonium nitrate
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IED components
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Moved in batches to rented rooms in Dhauj and Fatehpur Taga
