Significant Breakthrough in Red Fort Investigation

A major development has occurred in the inquiry regarding the deadly Red Fort blast. Sources now suspect that Dr Umar Nabi acted as a "shoe bomber." He likely triggered the explosion that claimed 12 lives and injured many others. New forensic evidence from the site has shifted the investigation's focus to a shoe found inside Umar's i20 car.

Discovery of Explosive Traces

Investigators found the footwear beneath the driver's seat near the right front tyre. Inside the shoe, they discovered a metal-like substance. Officials believe this material was used to activate the detonation. Experts detected traces of TATP on both the tyre and the shoe. This chemical is often called the "Mother of Satan" due to its high sensitivity. This finding suggests Umar concealed the initiation mechanism in his footwear.

Explosive Stockpile and Funding

Probe teams confirmed that Jaish operatives had stored a large quantity of TATP. The explosion involved a mix of this volatile chemical and ammonium nitrate. Evidence found under the car's rear seat suggests additional explosives were present. Furthermore, the investigation tracked Rs 20 lakh to the terror module. Arrested suspect Dr Shaheen allegedly facilitated these funds to plan the Delhi attack.

Parallels to Past Terror Tactics

Agencies are drawing parallels between this incident and the 2001 case of Richard Reid. Reid famously attempted to detonate explosives hidden in his shoes on a flight from Paris. Officials note that the placement of explosives in the Red Fort case matches Reid's method. Teams are working to reconstruct the exact mechanism used.

Broader Terror Plot Revealed

Sources previously stated the Jaish-linked module had a plan codenamed 'D-6'. They intended to carry out attacks in multiple cities. Their initial plan was to strike on the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition. When that plan failed, they moved to Plan B and executed the attack in Delhi.