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Suspect Detained Following Deadly Car Bombing in Delhi
Authorities have apprehended a man in connection with a devastating car bomb explosion in Delhi that resulted in eight fatalities and injured 20 others last week. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) confirmed that the vehicle involved in the attack was registered under the name of the detained individual.
The NIA has accused the suspect, who hails from Indian-administered Kashmir, of collaborating with the alleged suicide bomber responsible for the incident. The blast occurred near a metro station adjacent to the iconic Red Fort, a prominent historical monument in Delhi.
Ongoing Investigations and Evidence Collection
Investigators have also confiscated a second vehicle believed to be linked to the suicide attacker for further forensic analysis. To date, authorities have interviewed 73 witnesses, including survivors of the explosion, to piece together the sequence of events.
This attack marks the first major bombing in Delhi since 2011, highlighting a significant breach in the city’s otherwise stringent security measures.
Details of the Incident and Official Responses
The explosion took place at 6:52 PM local time (13:22 GMT) when a slow-moving car halted at a crowded traffic signal before detonating. Home Minister Amit Shah promptly identified the vehicle as a white Hyundai i20.
Video footage from the scene revealed the charred remains of the white car alongside several other damaged vehicles, including an autorickshaw and cycle rickshaws, underscoring the blast’s intensity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack as a calculated “conspiracy,” pledging that the government would relentlessly pursue those responsible, their accomplices, and financiers. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi described the tragedy as “deeply distressing.”
Exploring Possible Links and Broader Security Concerns
Police investigations are currently examining potential connections between this bombing and the recent arrest of seven individuals in Indian-administered Kashmir. Additionally, authorities are probing any ties to the seizure of approximately 2,900 kilograms of explosives uncovered in a Delhi suburb earlier this year.
The Red Fort: A Symbolic and Strategic Location
The Red Fort, constructed in the 17th century, is a major tourist attraction visited by thousands daily. It also holds national significance as the site where Indian prime ministers deliver their annual Independence Day addresses. The proximity of the attack to this landmark has raised concerns about security protocols at key heritage sites.
In light of this incident, security agencies are expected to enhance surveillance and protective measures around critical infrastructure and public spaces to prevent future attacks.
