NIA probe: Faridabad terror module planned multiple bomb factories, mass blasts
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has uncovered a far-reaching conspiracy by the Faridabad terror module to establish multiple bomb-making factories across India and carry out a sustained campaign of high-intensity blasts, according to findings from the agency's ongoing investigation into the module and the Red Fort blast case. The scale of the plot, investigators say, would have been catastrophic had the module not been dismantled in October 2025.
Scale of the Conspiracy
The Faridabad module, described by officials as one of the most sophisticated terror networks the country has encountered, was primarily composed of medical professionals. Investigators seized 2,900 kilograms of fertiliser intended for bomb-making — a haul that, according to officials, prevented what could have been an unprecedented series of attacks.
According to the NIA, the module's ambitions extended well beyond a single facility. Members had surveyed multiple locations and drawn up plans to establish several bomb-making laboratories in different parts of the country. The Faridabad unit was designated to target Delhi and its surrounding areas, while a planned facility in Lucknow was intended to drive operations across Uttar Pradesh.
The TATP Connection
Central to the module's operational blueprint was the use of TATP — triacetone triperoxide, commonly referred to as the 'Mother of Satan' — a highly volatile explosive. The NIA's chargesheet states that Dr. Muzammil, identified as the principal accused, had located several chemical suppliers in Uttar Pradesh and passed this information to co-accused Dr. Shaheen Saeed, who reportedly wrote down the shop names by hand.
A local contact was subsequently tasked with approaching these suppliers to determine whether raw materials for TATP could be procured in very large quantities. Officials noted that the emphasis on bulk procurement underscored the module's intent to strike repeatedly, not just once.
Lucknow Reconnaissance and Target List
Dr. Muzammil reportedly made multiple visits to Lucknow to conduct on-foot reconnaissance at key sites. According to officials, he surveyed the Lok Bhawan, the Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, the Civil Secretariat, and Bapu Bhawan — all prominent government buildings. The module also reportedly visited Lal Bagh and Aminabad, which investigators believe were being assessed as potential targets for attacks in crowded civilian areas.
The NIA states that these reconnaissance operations were carried out between 25 and 30 August of the previous year, during which logistics were also being planned. Dr. Muzammil's profession reportedly provided effective cover for his movements, raising no immediate suspicion.
Indian Mujahideen Playbook
Officials drew a direct parallel between the Faridabad module's strategy and that of the Indian Mujahideen, which historically carried out major blasts and then went dormant for weeks before striking again. The Faridabad module was reportedly working on the same principle — a pattern of repeated high-intensity strikes at multiple locations to maximise surprise and sustained terror.
The module owed allegiance to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), and its dismantling in October 2025 is considered a significant counter-terror success. Investigators say the full extent of the network's reach is still being mapped as the NIA's chargesheet proceedings continue.