Investigators have confirmed that more than two kilograms of ammonium nitrate mixed with petroleum triggered the deadly explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10. The blast killed 13 people and destroyed a car driven by Umar Nabi. Sources linked to investigating agencies shared these details on Saturday as forensic teams continued to analyse the site.
Over 2 Kg Ammonium Nitrate, Petroleum Used In Red Fort Blast
Sources said Umar Nabi was an “expert” in making bombs and may have prepared the device himself. More than 52 samples collected from the debris show traces of ammonium nitrate, petroleum, and detonating substances. Forensic officers said the mixture was highly reactive and capable of producing a powerful explosion inside a confined vehicle.
Experts said such an explosive can be assembled in just 5 to 10 minutes. This finding has raised questions about why Umar waited for over three hours in a nearby parking area before the blast. Police now consider this extended waiting period a key part of the investigation.
Forensic Team Confirms Presence of Highly Reactive Materials
Forensic scientists found clear chemical signatures that match common components used in improvised explosive devices. They said the combination of ammonium nitrate and petroleum increases the intensity of the explosion. Investigators are now tracing the source of these materials and checking whether Umar obtained them locally or through external networks.
The team also found signs that the device had a simple ignition mechanism. This aligns with the belief that Umar could have made the bomb quickly, without specialist tools or a complex setup.
Police Probe the Three-Hour Delay Before Blast
The three-hour delay remains a crucial puzzle. Investigators said Umar’s prolonged presence in the parking lot suggests he may have been waiting for someone or observing movement around the area. Police are reviewing CCTV footage, call records, and digital logs to check if he met anyone or received last-minute instructions.
Officers are also considering the possibility that Umar intended a larger attack but changed plans due to shifting conditions. They are mapping his movements to identify patterns or potential accomplices.
Focus on External Links and Bomb-Making Training
Investigators said Umar’s skill in handling chemicals and his ability to operate unnoticed indicate possible outside support. His background, travel history, and online behaviour are now under scrutiny. Agencies are also questioning chemical suppliers and checking recent ammonium nitrate purchases across multiple districts.
Authorities believe that understanding how Umar sourced the materials will help reveal whether the blast was part of a bigger plan.
Agencies Examine Link to Rising Parking-Lot Explosions
A new angle has emerged as investigators compare this case with a pattern of recent parking-lot-based blasts in several Indian cities. In many incidents, attackers used parked vehicles to hide explosives and delay suspicion. The long wait before detonation has also appeared in similar attacks. Agencies want to determine whether the Red Fort blast followed an established pattern or reflects a new method of targeting crowded zones.
Authorities say the probe will continue with forensic, digital, and field investigations to piece together the complete sequence of events.
