Salman sold car to Devendra, who sold it to Tariq; Delhi Red Fort blast under investigation

New Delhi: The investigation into the deadly car explosion near Gate No. 1 of Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station on Monday has taken a crucial turn, revealing a complex chain of ownership of the vehicle involved in the blast.

Sources say the Hyundai i20 car, registered under the name Mohammad Salman in Haryana with registration number HR 26 C 7674, had been sold by Salman to a resident of Okhla, Devendra, about a year and a half ago.

Police are now questioning both Salman and Devendra, trying to ascertain why the vehicle’s ownership was never officially transferred after the sale. This discrepancy in registration has emerged as a key angle in the ongoing probe, with authorities examining whether it played a role in concealing the vehicle’s involvement in the blast.

Dog Squad teams and forensic experts are combing through the site, while CCTV footage from the area is being analyzed for additional leads. Further investigation revealed that Devendra subsequently sold the same vehicle to Tariq, a resident linked to Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir.

This revelation has added a new layer to the probe, with law enforcement agencies examining possible links between the vehicle and extremist networks. Officials are treating this development seriously, and teams have been dispatched to Pulwama to trace Tariq’s movements and contacts.

The blast caused extensive damage around the Red Fort Metro Station. Glass panels inside the station shattered due to the intensity of the explosion. At least 13 people have died, and over 20 others have been injured, with several in critical condition. Nearby vehicles, motorcycles, and shops were also significantly damaged. Authorities are still assessing the total extent of the destruction.

Senior officers from the Delhi Police, National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Security Guard (NSG), and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) are coordinating the investigation. While the exact motive behind the blast is yet to be determined, police are exploring all angles, including possible links to terrorist activity. The blast has prompted heightened security measures across Delhi and other major cities, with additional patrolling and checks at sensitive locations.

Home Ministry officials are closely monitoring the situation. Preliminary reports suggest that the blast was premeditated, but investigations are ongoing to determine whether it was part of a larger terrorist operation. Authorities are also verifying whether any explosives or hazardous materials were transported using the vehicle before the explosion.

Salman and Devendra remain in police custody, and Tariq’s whereabouts are being actively traced. The authorities have assured the public that all possible leads are being pursued, and the investigation is being carried out with full coordination among central and state security agencies.

This chain of transactions—from Salman to Devendra, and then to Tariq—has emerged as a critical lead in understanding the origins of the vehicle used in the blast and its potential connections to broader security threats. The probe continues to unravel the network and intentions behind the devastating incident near one of Delhi’s most sensitive landmarks.

Also Read: Two Arrested After Deadly Car Explosion Near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station