NEW DELHI: A week after the devastating explosion near the Red Fort that killed 13 people and injured nearly two dozen, investigators now believe that the blast may have been triggered by triacetone triperoxide (TATP) — an infamously unstable explosive often referred to as the “Mother of Satan.”
According to officials involved in the probe, early assessments indicate that the explosion pattern and intensity closely resemble those caused by TATP, a compound so volatile it can detonate from heat, friction, or a minor rise in pressure, even without a detonator. Forensic teams are currently analysing residue from the destroyed i20 car to confirm the presence of the explosive.
Initial Assumptions Shift
Authorities had earlier suspected the use of ammonium nitrate, a comparatively stable substance that requires a detonator. But evidence gathered over the past few days has shifted the focus to TATP — a material often used in terror attacks due to its destructive power and ease of synthesis using commercially available chemicals.
The car was driven by Umar Mohammad, a medical professional alleged to have links with Jaish-e-Mohammad. Investigators believe Umar understood how precarious TATP can be and still entered a densely populated zone near Chandni Chowk, raising concerns that the explosives might have been intended for a larger attack.
A Notorious Explosive
TATP has been tied to several major terror strikes worldwide, including the 2015 Paris attacks, the 2016 Brussels bombings, and the 2017 Manchester Arena blast. The compound earned its fearsome nickname due to its extreme sensitivity and frequent use by bomb-makers with militant training.
Officials noted that the pattern of destruction at the Delhi blast site — intense shockwaves and severe structural damage — aligns with previous incidents involving TATP.
Key Questions for Investigators
With forensic tests underway, investigators are probing multiple angles:
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How Umar obtained the chemicals required to produce TATP
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Whether he had assistance in assembling the explosive
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If the detonation was accidental, triggered by rising heat inside the vehicle
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Whether the material was intended for a larger coordinated strike
Authorities are also tracing Umar’s movements in the hours leading up to the blast. Preliminary reconstruction suggests he spent a considerable amount of time navigating Old Delhi’s narrow lanes before the explosion occurred. If TATP was indeed inside the vehicle for hours, officials say they must determine what kept the explosive stable for so long.
Network Under the Scanner
The investigation has already widened, leading to the arrest of three of Umar’s colleagues — Shaheen Saeed, Muzammil Shakeel, and Adil Rather — all doctors associated with Al Falah University in Faridabad. Officials are examining whether the group was planning multiple blasts across the National Capital Region.
In sweeping raids, police recovered nearly 3,000 kg of explosive chemicals and bomb-making supplies from properties linked to the suspects. A rifle and ammunition were found in Saeed’s vehicle, and her recent passport verification is being scrutinized amid suspicions she intended to flee the country.
As forensic results are awaited, investigators warn that the blast may represent just one part of a larger terror plot, with the role of the suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad module now under intense examination.
