The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made significant strides in its ongoing investigation into the deadly blast near Delhi’s Red Fort by naming three additional suspects in a supplementary chargesheet. This latest development, reported on Saturday, brings the total number of individuals identified in connection to the November 10 explosion to 13.
The newly named suspects hail from Jammu and Kashmir and are identified as Zameer Ahmad Ahanger, Tufail Ahmad Bhat, and Muzafar Ahmad, also known by the aliases Faraz or Zafar. Among these, the NIA has designated Muzafar Ahmad as a key conspirator associated with the tragic incident that led to the loss of at least 11 lives and left numerous others injured.
The blast, which occurred near the Red Fort metro station, has been classified by the Union government as a terrorist act just two days after it took place. Initial investigations have revealed that Umar Un Nabi, a medical professional, was at the wheel of the vehicle that exploded, intensifying concerns over public safety in the capital.
According to the NIA’s findings, Muzafar Ahmad was reportedly involved in the formation of a terrorist organization known as Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, which was established in Kashmir in 2017 following a split from the Hizbul Mujahideen, the region’s largest militant group. The agency asserts that Ahmad participated in a secretive meeting at Eidgah in Srinagar back in June 2022 where this organization was formed, indicating his longstanding ties to militant activities.
Furthermore, the NIA has accused Ahmad of being involved in the production, testing, and storage of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) using triacetone triperoxide, a powerful explosive substance. Allegedly, this activity was conducted at a covert facility operated from Al-Falah University in Faridabad, Haryana. In light of these serious allegations, a non-bailable warrant has been issued for Ahmad’s arrest, signaling the authorities’ determination to hold those responsible accountable.
The investigation continues to unfold, as the NIA diligently works to piece together the events leading up to the blast. The agency has urged the public for any information that could assist in their efforts, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in combating terrorism. As the nation grapples with the implications of such violent incidents, the NIA’s actions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing security and preventing future attacks.
