In a shocking revelation, forensic experts from Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) have confirmed that victims of the Red Fort blast suffered ruptured lungs and eardrums, indicating that the explosion occurred at a very close range.
The post-mortem findings revealed severe damage to the lungs, ears, intestines, and abdomen. Experts said most injuries were concentrated on the upper body, head, and chest, suggesting a high-intensity detonation in close proximity.
The blast near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening claimed nine lives and left 20 others injured. Disturbing visuals from the scene showed mangled bodies and severed limbs, painting a grim picture of the explosion’s impact.
Some victims died on the spot, while others succumbed to injuries during treatment. Officials confirmed that six bodies have been identified and handed over to families.
Cross-Injury Pattern Observed on Victims
Experts noted a “cross-injury pattern” on multiple bodies, a sign that victims were thrown against walls or the ground by the force of the blast. This impact caused fractures and head injuries, the experts added.
Notably, no fragments of conventional explosives were found on the victims or their clothing, leading investigators to believe that a new or modified explosive might have been used.
ALSO READ: ‘A Diwali blast was planned but then…’: What key suspect in Delhi car blast case told sleuths
An official from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) confirmed that apart from ammonium nitrate, traces of a more powerful, high-grade explosive were detected in samples collected from the site.
“One of the samples appears to be ammonium nitrate. The second explosive seems more powerful, and its exact composition will be confirmed after a detailed forensic analysis,” an official said.
Over 40 samples, including cartridges, live ammunition, and explosive residues, were collected from the scene for testing.
Link to Faridabad Explosives Seizure
The explosion occurred around 6:52 pm on Monday, the same day police seized 2,900 kg of explosives in Faridabad, about 50 km from Delhi.
Sources said Dr Umar Mohammad, the suspected suicide bomber, allegedly panicked and triggered the blast prematurely after the arrest of two module members — Dr Muzammil Shakeel and Dr Adil Rather — in connection with the Faridabad seizure.
ALSO READ: Lucknow doctor tasked to set up Jaish woman wing in India held | Who is Dr Shaheen Shahid?
Preliminary findings from top intelligence agencies suggest that the improvised explosive device (IED) may have been improperly assembled, limiting its overall destructive impact.
Officials believe the suspects may have been transporting the explosives when one of them accidentally triggered detonation near the Red Fort Metro Station, setting off alarm bells across the national capital.