A powerful car bomb detonated closed to the Red Fort in Delhi earlier this month — killing 15 people and leaving many others injured. The suicide bomber was eventually identified as Al-Falah University doctor Umar Nabi who had worked with several other “white-collar” associates to pull off the attack. Investigators have now unearthed crucial new details about his preparations ahead of the blast.
According to an NDTV report, Nabi had travelled with a portable ‘bomb-making kit’ ahead of the attack. Sources told the publication that he had gone everywhere with a massive suitcase — a “mobile workstation” that reportedly included various chemical compounds and containers for storage. Terror suspects arrested in connection with the probe told investigators that Nabi had also run tests within his own room at Al-Falah University.
The investigation has so far indicated a concerning shift in cross-border terror strategy, where highly educated professionals were groomed entirely through digital means by handlers operating from Pakistan and other parts of the world. Sources had earlier told ANI that each accused in the module was reporting to a different handler.
‘Carried half-completed IED in car for blast’
He had reportedly carried a ‘half-completed IED’ within the Hyundai i20 car used for the blast. Investigators believe that Nabi added acetone (nail polish remover) and powdered sugar to make the bomb. A PTI report on Sunday added that the ‘white-collar terrorists’ had used YouTube to learn how to create Improvised Explosive Devices for their attacks. Intelligence officials also told ANI that Umar had been studying bomb-making videos, manuals and open-source content online.
He procured chemical ingredients from Nuh and electronic components from Bhagirath Palace and Faridabad’s NIT Market. He also bought a deep freezer to store the chemicals and prepare the explosive mixture. The freezer was used to stabilise and process the compound.
‘We couldn’t resist him’
“We couldn’t resist him. His words were full of facts and research. He always called himself emir and didn’t talk much. Till the end he maintained that it was about religion and nothing else,” NDTV accused Muzamil Shakeel was quoted as telling investigators.
Officials have also confirmed a serious fight between Muzammil and Umar inside the Al-Falah University premises in Faridabad over money. The incident was witnessed by several students. Umar had handed over his red EcoSport car — which already contained explosive material — to Muzammil after the confrontation.
(With inputs from agencies)
