Did Dr Umar Drive the Explosive-Laden Car in the Delhi Blast?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dr Umar Mohammad identified as the driver involved in the incident.
- The explosion occurred near the Red Fort, a significant national monument.
- National Investigation Agency has taken charge of the investigation.
- DNA evidence confirms Dr Umar's presence in the vehicle.
- Authorities are investigating potential larger networks involved.
New Delhi, Nov 13 (NationPress) In a significant development regarding the Red Fort explosion, authorities have verified that Dr Umar Mohammad, a prominent physician affiliated with Al Falah University in Faridabad, was the driver of the i20 vehicle that detonated near the Red Fort on November 10. This tragic incident resulted in the loss of eight lives and left over 20 individuals injured.
As per sources from the Delhi Police, DNA testing has definitively confirmed Umar's identity, with his DNA samples showing a perfect match with those of his mother and brother. This evidence leaves no ambiguity regarding his presence in the vehicle during the explosion. The DNA was extracted from bone fragments, teeth, and pieces of clothing found within the wreckage of the i20.
The devastating explosion occurred at approximately 6:52 p.m. on Monday, sending shockwaves throughout the capital and prompting immediate security measures. The blast's proximity to one of India’s most revered landmarks raised concerns about the security breach in the heavily monitored area surrounding the Red Fort.
Following the incident, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has officially assumed control of the investigation from the Delhi Police’s Special Cell. NIA agents have secured the area and are performing forensic analysis of the debris, which includes traces of explosives, vehicle parts, and digital evidence.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the car was outfitted with high-grade improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Authorities are currently tracing the source of these explosives and attempting to reconstruct Umar’s movements leading up to the incident.
Reports suggest that Umar departed his residence in Faridabad earlier that day, informing coworkers of a personal engagement in Delhi. Investigators are scrutinizing whether he acted independently or in concert with a broader network.
The explosion on November 10 coincided with a significant discovery made by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, who seized nearly 3,000 kg of explosives from two residential buildings in Faridabad, Haryana.