TATP likely used in Old Delhi explosion that killed 13, say probe teams
Investigators believe that triacetone triperoxide (TATP), the extremely volatile explosive infamously known as the “Mother of Satan,” may have been used in the powerful blast that shook central Delhi a week ago. Forensic teams are now examining residue from the explosion to confirm the presence of TATP, which can detonate simply due to heat or friction without the need for a traditional detonator.
Earlier ammonium nitrate suspicion replaced by TATP angle
Police initially suspected ammonium nitrate in the November 10 explosion involving a white Hyundai i20 near the Red Fort, which killed 13 people and left nearly two dozen injured. The vehicle was driven by Umar Mohammad, a doctor allegedly linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror outfit.
According to investigators, Umar was likely aware of the unstable nature of TATP before driving into one of the busiest neighbourhoods of Old Delhi, close to Chandni Chowk.
Why TATP is known as the ‘Mother of Satan’
Experts describe TATP as one of the most dangerous homemade explosives due to its extreme sensitivity. Even slight temperature changes, friction, or pressure can destabilise it and trigger a massive explosion. Unlike ammonium nitrate, it does not require a detonator.
The explosive earned its name because of its widespread use by illegal bomb-makers. Evidence of TATP was found in several major terror attacks, including the 2015 Paris attacks, the 2016 Brussels bombings, the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, and the 2017 Barcelona attacks.
Blast intensity matches TATP patterns, say forensic experts
Damage at the explosion site is consistent with TATP’s ability to generate intense shockwaves. Investigators suspect the explosive may have detonated accidentally inside the vehicle, possibly due to heat exposure or destabilisation.
Authorities are now examining how Umar procured the multiple chemical ingredients needed to prepare TATP. They are also probing whether he was supported by a broader network or if others were involved in assembling the explosive.
Suspect’s movements and network under scrutiny
Reconstruction of events from November 10 indicates that Umar spent a considerable amount of time driving through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi before the blast occurred. If TATP is confirmed, investigators will examine how the compound remained stable for several hours in a closed vehicle.
Three of Umar’s colleagues—Shaheen Saeed, Muzammil Shakeel, and Adil Rather, all doctors at Al Falah University in Faridabad—have been arrested. Investigators are assessing whether they were planning coordinated explosions across the National Capital Region (NCR).
Massive haul of explosives seized from suspects
In a major breakthrough, police recovered nearly 3,000 kg of explosives and bomb-making materials from houses rented by the accused. The haul indicates that the group may have been preparing a large-scale terror operation. A rifle and ammunition were also found in the possession of Saeed, whose recent passport verification suggests she may have been planning to flee the country.
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