Red Fort Blast Unmasks Chilling Terror Plot Hidden Behind A Used Car’s Silent Journey

New Delhi: The blast took place near Red Fort when an I-20 car exploded, initially appearing like a mechanical accident but later confirmed as a terror strike. Forensic analysis detected explosive traces, forcing agencies to shift the investigation’s direction. CCTV footage around the area helped establish the vehicle’s movements in the hours before the blast. The car was first owned by Mohammad Salman from Gurugram, who later sold it to a used-car platform. Investigators believe the constant change of hands played a major role in masking identities. The incident pushed security agencies to trace every previous owner linked to the vehicle.

How Many Times Was It Sold?

After Salman sold the car to the company, it was purchased by Devendra from Okhla, known for dealing in second-hand cars. He later shifted possession to a man named Sonu, also known as Sachin, from Faridabad. Soon after, the car ended up with Dr. Umar, a resident of Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. Each transaction occurred within short intervals, which investigators found suspicious. The rapid transfers suggested a pre-planned attempt to blur the ownership chain. This pattern is commonly seen in terror-linked vehicle acquisitions.

Why Was the Number Plate Intact?

Unlike previous terror operations where number plates are replaced to avoid identification, this car retained its original registration. However, the documents tied to ownership had inconsistencies pointing to deliberate manipulation. Umar allegedly used documents belonging to his acquaintance Tariq to register the car under his name. This move was intended to shield him from tracking and questioning. The unchanged number plate created an illusion of normalcy. Authorities now believe this was a psychological tactic to delay suspicion.

Who Really Drove The Car?

Investigations revealed that although the car was registered using Tariq’s documents, it was actually used by Dr. Umar. He even obtained a SIM card in Tariq’s name, enabling communication without linking himself digitally. Call records of this SIM exposed contact with suspected handlers associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed. Umar had completed his medical education from Al-Falah University and served as a senior resident doctor. His professional identity provided him a protective cover against suspicion. The contrast between his public role and hidden ties shocked investigators.

Was This A Lone Operation?

Central agencies suspect this blast is part of a deeper terror network linking Delhi, Haryana, and Kashmir. Joint teams from Delhi Police, Gujarat ATS, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Faridabad Police coordinated the investigation. Several individuals have been detained, and questioning is ongoing across multiple locations. The possibility of sleeper cells aiding logistics has not been ruled out. Evidence suggests surveillance was carried out near the Red Fort days before the blast. Authorities are now mapping every connection tied to the vehicle’s journey.

Why Are Used Cars Becoming Soft Targets?

Terror outfits increasingly rely on second-hand vehicles due to the ease of ownership transfers and limited scrutiny. Frequent resales create complex documentation trails that delay tracing. Cars appear ordinary, blending easily into public spaces. Previous attacks across India have shown similar patterns of vehicle sourcing. Security agencies have started tightening verification norms for used-car markets. Despite policies, loopholes continue to offer exploitation space to terror operators.

What Happens Next?

Forensic labs are analyzing residue samples from the blast to determine the exact composition of explosives. Digital footprints from phones and messaging platforms are being traced for network mapping. Security has been intensified across sensitive Delhi landmarks. The incident has reignited concerns about long-range radical influence reaching urban centers. Further arrests and disclosures are expected as the investigation progresses. The case continues to unfold layers of planning, deception, and hidden coordination behind a single vehicle.