Delhi 10/11 Blast Update: Forensic Teams Suspect ‘Mother of Satan’ TATP in Deadly Explosion
Deadly TATP explosive suspected in Red Fort car attack.
Forensic experts suspect triacetone triperoxide (TATP), notoriously dubbed the "Mother of Satan" for its extreme volatility, was the explosive behind the November 10 car blast near Delhi's Red Fort that killed 13 and injured over 20. Unlike stable ammonium nitrate, TATP can detonate from mere friction, heat, or shock—no detonator required—making it a favorite among trained terrorists worldwide. Investigators are analyzing blast-site residue and damage patterns, which align with TATP's signature high-velocity shockwaves.
The driver, Dr. Umar Mohammad—a Jaish-e-Mohammad-linked physician from Al-Falah University—allegedly knew the compound's instability yet navigated crowded Old Delhi lanes for hours before the explosion. Officials believe the blast may have been accidental, triggered by rising temperatures inside the white Hyundai i20, potentially derailing a larger planned attack. The incident occurred just hours after Haryana Police seized 2,900 kg of explosives from a suspect-linked site 50 km away.
Three arrested colleagues—Dr. Shaheen Saeed, Dr. Muzammil Shakeel, and Dr. Adil Rather—all medical professionals from the same university—are under intense scrutiny for allegedly forming a "white-collar terror module." Police recovered bomb-making materials, a rifle, and ammunition from their residences, alongside evidence suggesting coordinated preparations for multiple strikes across the National Capital Region. Saeed’s recent passport activity has raised fears of a possible escape attempt.
Also Read: Delhi 10/11 Blast Update: DMRC Restores Full Operations at Lal Quila Metro
The use of TATP, previously detected in the 2015 Paris attacks, 2017 Manchester bombing, and 2016 Brussels blasts, points to sophisticated terrorist training. Investigators are tracing how Umar sourced precursor chemicals and whether a broader network assisted in synthesis. Digital footprints, communication logs, and vehicle movement data are being examined to reconstruct the module’s full operational chain.
With confirmation pending from forensic labs, authorities warn that TATP’s presence would signal a dangerous escalation in domestic terror capabilities. The National Investigation Agency continues its probe as security remains heightened across Delhi, underscoring the chilling reality of highly educated professionals turning to radical violence.
Also Read: #JustIn: Prime Suspect of Red Fort Blast Stayed in Rented House in Haryana’s Nuh, Say Sources
