NIA arrests two including an imam from Uttarakhand in Delhi Red Fort blast case

In a major breakthrough for the investigation into the horrific car blast near Delhi's iconic Red Fort, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrests two key suspects from Uttarakhand's Haldwani unraveling links that could expose a larger terror network. The explosive detonated on November 10 inside a slow-moving car at a busy traffic signal, killing 15 innocent people and injuring several in a shocking act of terrorism that shook the heart of the capital.  Mohammad Asif, an imam of Banbhulpura's Bilali mosque, and his associate Nazar Kamal, an electrician, were swiftly taken into custody by an NIA team working with Delhi and Haldwani police.

The duo's arrest came from crucial clues in call records tied to Dr. Umar Nabi, the prime accused already in custody, highlighting how everyday connections like mobile calls can lead to cracking high-stakes cases. The operation unfolded late on November 28 in the densely populated Banbhulpura area of Uttarakhand's Haldwani where the suspects were hiding—Asif leading prayers at the mosque and Kamal working odd electrical jobs. Acting on precise intelligence, the NIA raided the mosque and nearby spots, arresting the men without resistance before airlifting them to Delhi for intense questioning.

Investigators suspects Asif and Kamal played roles in sourcing materials or providing logistical support for the blast, though full details are still emerging. Meanwhile, the team also visited a mosque in Nainital district to grill other potential leads, showing the probe's widening net across Uttarakhand.With the arrests, security has been beefed up around the Bilali mosque and Asif's home, deploying heavy police forces under Haldwani's top officers to prevent any backlash or unrest. This development not only brings hope to the grieving families but also underscores the NIA's relentless pursuit in combating terrorism. As interrogations continue, authorities warn of possible further arrests, urging the public to stay vigilant amid heightened alert in sensitive areas.