The National Investigation Agency made its first breakthrough in the Delhi blast case on Sunday with the arrest of a Kashmir-based associate of the alleged suicide bomber. The arrest comes days after a car exploded near the Red Fort Metro station. The incident triggered a major national security probe and heightened alert in the Capital.
Officials confirmed that the arrested man, 27-year-old Amir Rashid Ali, had close ties with Umar Nabi. Nabi, a medical practitioner from Kashmir, is believed to have driven the explosive-laden vehicle that blew up outside the station. Investigators said that Ali played a significant role in facilitating the movement of the accused doctor in the weeks leading up to the blast.
Major Step in High-Profile Probe
The arrest marks a crucial step forward for the NIA, which has been under pressure to establish the origin of the conspiracy. The agency formed multiple teams last week to track down possible associates of Nabi. Investigators relied on digital surveillance, communication records, and travel trails. They also coordinated closely with police units in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir.
According to officials, Ali was detained in a late-night operation and moved to Delhi for questioning. Investigators believe he helped Nabi in logistics and communication. They are now examining whether he had a direct role in planning the blast. Teams are scanning digital devices seized from his residence to retrieve deleted data and encrypted chats.
Doctor-Turned-Suspect Under Scrutiny
The role of Umar Nabi has turned into one of the most startling elements of the case. Known locally as a young doctor involved in community work, he shocked acquaintances with his sudden transformation. Investigators suspect that he became radicalised over the past few years and developed links with extremist networks. His involvement in driving the car that detonated outside Red Fort has intensified questions about recruitment patterns.
Officials said Nabi had recently travelled between several states. He reportedly remained under the radar by using forged documents and alternate phone numbers. His movements are being pieced together through CCTV footage, bank transactions, and mobile tower dumps. Investigators believe more arrests may follow.
Explosive-Laden Car Raises Red Flags
The blast near the Red Fort Metro station sent shockwaves across Delhi. The explosion occurred early in the morning, causing panic but no civilian casualties. Forensic teams recovered charred vehicle parts and traces of high-intensity explosives. The material is currently being analysed in labs.
Security agencies are investigating how the explosives were procured. They said that such material cannot be sourced without a network. This supports the theory that Nabi and his aide were not acting alone. The blast site has been cordoned off for further examination, and additional teams are scanning nearby areas for clues.
Focus on Wider Network
The NIA has expanded its investigation to multiple states. Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi are under the scanner. Investigators are also coordinating with intelligence agencies to determine if the blast was part of a broader attempt to target high-value locations in the Capital.
The agency is analysing links between the car explosion and previous attempts to target Delhi. Officials hinted that early evidence suggests international motives. They did not confirm whether any group has claimed responsibility. Security agencies are also monitoring online channels for chatter related to the blast.
Community Reaction and Security Measures
The arrest of Ali has brought renewed attention to the case in Kashmir. Residents of his locality expressed shock at his alleged involvement. Some said he kept a low profile and rarely interacted with neighbours. Police units in Kashmir have increased surveillance in sensitive pockets following the arrest.
In Delhi, security around tourist hubs and metro stations has been tightened. Quick Response Teams have been deployed in key areas. The Delhi Police urged citizens to report suspicious activities using the emergency helpline. Routine checks at major intersections and bus terminals have also been intensified.
NIA Appeals for Public Cooperation
The NIA has appealed to the public to share any information related to the blast. Officials said that even small details could help in identifying the remaining members of the suspected module. The agency also uploaded a brief advisory on its official website, urging citizens to stay alert. Interested readers can also visit internal resources on public safety and counterterror updates via government portals such as ncrb.gov.in and india.gov.in.
Call to Action
As the investigation progresses, more details are likely to emerge in the coming days. Readers are encouraged to follow official updates through the NIA website and the Delhi Police information portal. Staying informed and vigilant remains key to ensuring public safety during ongoing counterterror operations.