New Delhi: Delhi Police have escalated security across the city following a deadly explosion near the Red Fort metro station on Monday evening that claimed 12 lives and injured several others. Investigators now believe the blast was part of a broader terror plan targeting Republic Day celebrations, according to media reports citing government sources.
Reports suggest that the suspects had previously conducted a recce of the Red Fort, preparing for a major attack on the national event. The vehicle used in the blast, a white Hyundai i20, was reportedly parked for nearly 11 days inside the Al-Falah Medical College campus in Faridabad, Haryana. The suspected suicide bomber, identified as Dr. Umar Nabi, allegedly drove the car out on the morning of November 10, in panic due to intensified security operations against terror modules.
Officials noted that the explosion appeared premature and accidental, as the device was not fully developed. Investigators found no crater, shrapnel, or projectiles at the site, indicating that the bomb detonated before reaching full potency.
In response, Delhi Police have placed the city on high alert, deploying police and paramilitary forces at all major entry and exit points, including Ghazipur, Singhu, Tikri, and Badarpur borders. Extensive vehicle checks, random inspections at markets, metro stations, railway stations, and bus terminals, and intensified patrolling near crowded areas and tourist sites are underway.
“All district units and specialised wings have been instructed to remain vigilant,” said a senior officer. “The priority is public safety and maintaining citizens’ confidence.”
Authorities have also deployed sniffer dogs, metal detectors, and anti-sabotage teams at sensitive locations. Residents have been urged to remain alert and report any suspicious objects or individuals.
Coordination between the Delhi Police, Intelligence Bureau, and paramilitary forces is ongoing to assess the threat landscape. Officials confirmed that heightened security measures will remain in place until further notice.
